Carson-Newman's Hafey Earns SACC Beach Volleyball Scholar-Athlete of the Year Honors

ROCK HILL, S.C. (TheSAC.com) – Carson-Newman University's Trinity Hafey has been voted the 2026 South Atlantic Conference Carolinas Beach Volleyball Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the Conference office announced.

Hafey, a Business major, has excelled both on the sand and in the classroom throughout her career with the Eagles, compiling an impressive 3.968 cumulative GPA while emerging as one of the top student-athletes in the SAC.

A CSC Academic All-District Team selection, Hafey has consistently demonstrated excellence academically while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics. She has also been recognized for her success on the court as part of Carson-Newman's nationally competitive beach volleyball program.

On the sand, Hafey has played a major role in the Eagles' sustained success over the past three seasons. Carson-Newman posted a 24-3 overall record during her sophomore campaign and followed that with a 20-4 mark, including a 10-2 conference record, during her junior season.

Hafey helped lead Carson-Newman to two South Atlantic Conference Carolinas regular season championships and two SAC Carolinas Championship Tournament titles during her career. She also earned AVCA Top Flight honors twice and was named SAC Carolinas Pair of the Week for her outstanding performances in competition.

Throughout her career, Hafey has been a consistent contributor for the Eagles, helping Carson-Newman establish itself as one of the premier beach volleyball programs in the region. Her leadership and competitive success have been instrumental in the program's continued growth and championship performances.

The SAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year award is presented annually to the top student-athlete in each sport, recognizing excellence in academics, athletics, leadership and service. Hafey's accomplishments exemplify the Conference's commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes.

2026 SACC Beach Volleyball Scholar-Athlete of the Year Finalists
Trinity Hafey, Carson-Newman, Winner
Brynn Smith, Tusculum