WINTER HAVEN – A defensive standout for Polk State Volleyball all season long, sophomore libero
Ana Martinez will be the final FCSAA Defensive Player of the Week for the 2026 season.
Martinez received the recognition on Tuesday. She is the first Polk State Volleyball player to win a Florida College Systems Activities Association (FCSAA) weekly honor this season.
"I'm very proud of Ana for earning this recognition," said Head Coach Jessica Beal. "Given her consistent hustle on the court and determination to better herself for the entire season, this is a well-deserved honor."
In matches last week against Eastern Florida State College and Santa Fe College, Martinez averaged 2.9 digs per set. She also had five service aces over the two matches.
After trailing by 10 points in the second set of the 3-2 win over Eastern Florida State on October 14, Martinez had consecutive aces to give the Eagles their first lead. In Saturday's 3-0 loss to Santa Fe, Martinez set a season-high with three aces.
"Ana has exemplified all the things we want in our student-athletes," added
Randy Lee, Polk State Director of Athletics. "She's involved on campus, takes her academics seriously, and serves as a leader on the court. It's tremendous to see her recognized."
A native of Mexico City, Martinez began her career at College of Southern Maryland. She has been a welcome addition to Polk State. Martinez finished the regular season ranked third in the FCSAA, averaging 3.56 digs per set.
"As an institution with intercollegiate athletics, it's always rewarding to see your athletes excel in their sport," said Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas. "I congratulate Ana on this recognition and wish our fall sports teams luck as they begin the postseason this week."
Martinez and the Eagles will try to win in Melbourne for the second straight trip on Friday night when they visit Eastern Florida State for the FCSAA Tournament quarterfinals. The winner will head to Fort Myers to take on Florida SouthWestern State College in the FCSAA Tournament semifinals on October 30.
