Conference Champions Celebrated with Ring Ceremonies

This spring student-athletes, coaches, parents and families, and members of the Meredith Alumnae Association gathered in the Johnson Hall Rotunda for ring ceremonies to celebrate Meredith’s  USA South Conference champions. The 2023 cross country, volleyball, and lacrosse teams received championship rings for winning their USA South Conference tournaments. 

On April 22, the 2023 cross country and volleyball teams received championship rings. 

The 2023 USA South Women’s Cross Country Championship was held at North Carolina Wesleyan University in October and saw Meredith win the championship for the second consecutive year. The Avenging Angels bested second-place Southern Virginia by 26 points and third-place Pfeiffer by 30 points. Head Coach Field Miller earned his second consecutive Coach of the Year Award and freshman Delaney Bundy was named Rookie of the Year. The Angels added six athletes to the USA South All-Conference list.

In November, the Avenging Angels volleyball team won the 2023 USA South Tournament after winning against Greensboro College 3-2 inside Weatherspoon Gymnasium. Four athletes were named to the all-tournament team. 

On March 2, the lacrosse team received their championship rings. In spring 2023 the Meredith lacrosse program captured its ninth consecutive USA South Tournament title with an 11-10 victory over Southern Virginia at the Meredith Track & Field Complex. The Angels clinched an NCAA berth with this victory. Six players were named to the all-tournament team. (The lacrosse team won its 10th consecutive conference tournament on May 4)

During both ring ceremonies, student-athletes were individually given a ring in a commemorative box. The Meredith Alumnae Association was pleased to help celebrate the accomplishments of these student-athletes by funding the championship rings.

“The Alumnae Association began covering the cost of championship rings for Avenging Angels athletic teams in 2022 to recognize the achievements of our student-athletes, who excel both inside and outside of the classroom,” said Hilary Allen, director of alumnae relations. “Prior to this support, Avenging Angels championship teams did not receive rings to celebrate their successful seasons. Doing this is one way for the Alumnae Association to impact today’s students.”

The coaches are pleased that their teams were recognized for their hard work and had this to say about their teams. 

“We were extremely excited to have a ceremony attached to receiving the championship rings. These rings don’t only signify a special achievement by these groups, but also will be a reminder of those fond memories later in life when opportunities arise to display or wear at events for these athletes,” said Field Miller, Head Coach Cross Country.

“Our championship rings are more than just jewelry; they’re reminders of unforgettable moments and the dedication it took to get there. For everyone involved, they are symbols of pride, perseverance, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence,” said Fiona Barkley, Head Coach Volleyball and Associate Athletic Director.

“The lacrosse team was honored to be celebrated at a championship ceremony and presented with team rings. These rings represent a year’s worth of hard work and will be a lasting reminder of the memories we created as a team while chasing down a championship title together. Each one of us wears them with pride and continued motivation to go get another one,” said Lauren Scott, Head Coach Lacrosse

Follow Avenging Angels athletics at goavengingangels.com.

*photo credit Marc Ridel Creative