By a vote of the Colonial Athletic Association's head volleyball coaches, George Mason senior Noelle Fanella was selected as one of the top returning players in the conference as she was named Tuesday to the Preseason All-CAA team. Mason sophomore Lana Zonjic was also recognized, earning honorable mention.

Fanella, a second team All-CAA selection last season, led the Patriots in points (314), kills (256) and aces (39).  She started every match in 2010 and was also fourth on the team in digs and fifth in total blocks.  The Bloomingdale, Ill., native set or equaled career single-match highs in every category last season.  The outside hitter was named the league's Co-Offensive Player of the Week on October 11 after 25 kills in wins over Georgia State and UNC Wilmington.

Zonjic had a sparkling rookie season with the Patriots in 2010, earning Co-Rookie of the Year honors. The Zagreb, Croatia native picked up the conference's weekly top rookie award three times during the season, where she appeared in every match and ranked third on the team in points (255.5).

Georgia State middle blocker Vineece Verdun was selected the CAA preseason Player of the Year, and completing the All-CAA squad were Delaware's Alissa Alker and Kim Stewart, James Madison's Danielle Erb and Northeastern's Janelle Tucker.

Honorable Mention: Natalie Abel, OH, James Madison; Celine Alasomuka, O/D, William & Mary; Ciara Brown, S, VCU; Katy Buck, OH, Towson; Katie Daorai, DS, James Madison; Muki Kangwa, OH/RS, Georgia State; Nikki Kinnier, OH/RS, Hostra; Lana Zonjic, OH, George Mason

PRESEASON CAA VOLLEYBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Vineece Verdun, Georgia State