Posted: Feb 05, 2025
Toms River, NJ - Sophomore Averie Barneman was named Ocean County College's 2024 “Woman Athlete of the Year” at a celebration of National Girls & Women in Sports Day, held at Ocean County College on February 4.
Barneman, an NJ Stars student majoring in nursing at Ocean, was a member of OCC's 2024 women's volleyball, women's basketball, and softball teams, and was named Most Valuable Player of OCC's softball team in 2024. Averie is equally talented academically, where she carries a 3.4 GPA and is a recipient of both the Shreve Foundation Scholarship and Local 27 Scholarship Awards.
"Averie Barneman is more than just an exceptional student athlete. She has a beautiful personality, which shines light wherever she goes," stated OCC Softball Head Coach Courtney Damiano. "She’s a great friend, an extremely hard worker, and a very goal-oriented individual. She is the type of student that every teacher wants in their class, and the type of athlete that every coach chases down. Averie is an all-around fantastic student, athlete, and woman that will truly make a difference in our world."
"Averie is the true definition of a leader," remarked OCC Women's Volleyball Head Coach Alexis Whitney. "She puts all of her teammates and coaches before herself and this is why she deserves this award. The saying goes, 'Leaders eat last', and Averie truly embodies this moral every single day. If you are lucky to know Averie on or off the court, you can always count on her to be in your corner."
“I feel truly honored and grateful to have been nominated for this award," stated Barneman. "Being recognized for my hard work and dedication means a lot to me, and I'm thankful to receive this honor."
Congratulations to Averie for receiving this prestigious recognition.
February 5, 2025, marks the 39th annual National Girls & Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). This celebration inspires girls and women to play and be active, to realize their full power. The confidence, strength and character gained through sports participation are the very tools girls and women need to become strong leaders in sports and life.