Takemoto named NWC Defensive Player of the Year

SALEM, Ore. — The Northwest Conference (NWC) has recognized the Willamette University volleyball team's stellar season, naming sophomore Dream Takemoto the NWC Defensive Player of the Year. Takemoto, a libero, also earned a spot on the All-NWC First Team. Teammates Leina Chu (setter) and Katey Cramer (outside hitter) were both named to the All-NWC Second Team for their performance during the 2025-26 season.

"Having three athletes receive all-conference recognition is an honor for Willamette Volleyball," said Head Coach Lily Hallock. "I am exceedingly proud of Dream, Katey, and Leina for the dedication they have shown. While all-conference honors are often considered individual awards, they are a reflection of Willamette volleyball as a whole."

The Bearcats had a record year, finishing fourth in the regular season and qualifying for the NWC tournament.

Dream Takemoto: NWC Defensive Player of the Year, All-NWC First Team

Takemoto anchored the Bearcats' defense, competing in all 23 matches this season. She led the team with an impressive 434 digs (5.11 digs per set), establishing herself as the conference's premier defensive specialist.

"Dream plays with a fire that is undeniable," Coach Hallock said. "She burns to get better and has put in quality time in and out of season to get stronger, faster, and more controlled in her game."

• Key Defensive Efforts: Takemoto logged five matches with 25 or more digs, including a season-high 28 digs against Bluffton University (Aug. 30). She also had 27 digs in both matches against Linfield (Sept. 30 and Oct. 29).

• All-Around Game: Beyond defense, Takemoto contributed significantly on the offensive end with 28 service aces and 72 assists.

Katey Cramer: All-NWC Second Team

Cramer was a dynamic force on offense, appearing in 20 matches and leading the team in total attack attempts. The outside hitter finished the season with 224 kills (2.95 kills per set) and a .191 hitting percentage.

Coach Hallock praised Cramer's leadership: "Katey is a selfless player and individual. She committed her energy toward improving the culture of Willamette Volleyball. If you have watched us play this season, you have seen that dedication play out on the court: this team loves playing together and supporting each other."

• Top Offensive Outings: Cramer had several high-impact performances, including a season-high 23 kills with a .328 hitting percentage against Whitman (Sept. 19). She was also highly efficient against Lewis and Clark (Nov. 7), recording 17 kills on a .500 hitting percentage.

• Skill Growth: Hallock added that Cramer, a transfer, "has worked hard to grow her game, especially her defense, serving, off-speed attacks, and blocking."

Leina Chu: All-NWC Second Team

Chu, the team's primary setter, was a pivotal playmaker, leading the offense across all 23 matches. She finished the season with a team-best 812 set assists (9.55 assists per set), consistently orchestrating the team's attack.

"Leina is extremely competitive. She loves training during the off-season, and worked especially hard this summer on her strength and conditioning," Hallock noted. "Just a sophomore, she runs our offense with intelligence and grit."

• Setting Prowess: Chu's best performance came in a five-set victory over Whitworth (Oct. 17), where she posted a season-high 61 assists.

• Versatile Contributions: In addition to her setting, Chu tallied 201 digs, added 17 service aces, and 25 kills.