Ben Zima CCIW Defensive Player of the Week March 9, 2026

Zima Tabbed CCIW Defensive Player of the Week

Collects first weekly honor of career

3/9/2026 4:00:00 PM

NAPERVILLE, Ill. - Sophomore Ben Zima (Glen Ellyn, Ill.-Glenbard South) of the Illinois Wesleyan University men's volleyball team was named the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin Defensive Player of the Week, announced by the league Monday, March 9.

Zima collects the first weekly honor of his career, and the eighth for the Titans this season. He joins freshman Aydin Provost (Chicago, Ill.-Mount Carmel), who was named the CCIW Hitter of the Week, Jan. 19, Feb. 2, and Feb. 16, and sophomore Ethan Kuziela (Chicago, Ill.-Marist), who earned CCIW Setter of the Week honors Jan. 19, Feb. 9, Feb. 16, and March 2.

Zima led Illinois Wesleyan defense to a 2-0 week in College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin play, including the program's first win over No. 11 Loras College Wednesday night, March 4. The victory was the best ranked win in program history. For the week, Zima recorded 26 digs, an average of 3.25 per set, and four assists, while helping the defense limit opponents to a .171 showing.

The Glen Ellyn, Ill. native opened the week with 13 digs and four assists in the win over Loras Wednesday night. The sophomore followed with 13 digs in the sweep of North Park University Saturday, March 7. His digs tied for the most in a three-set match in program history.

Zima and the Titans host Augustana College for a midweek CCIW clash Wednesday night, March 11. First serve is set for 7 p.m. inside Shirk Center.

Print Friendly Version