NJCAA All-Region X Division III Recognizes TCC Student-Athletes for Selection to the First, Second, and Freshmen Teams After Inaugural Season

Student-athletes from the College's basketball programs were recognized for their athletic performances and selected by other coaches in Region X Division III. The NJCAA Region X (Region 10) Division III represents a competitive, non-athletic scholarship division within the National Junior College Athletic Association, primarily featuring colleges in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The division includes five community colleges: Tidewater, Virginia Peninsula, Patrick and Henry, Camp, and Sandhills.

Forward Aaliyah Price (#40) and guard Mackenzie Whitehead (#50) were both honored on the All-Region X Division III Women's Basketball Team. Forward Reagan Licata (#11) was named to the All-Freshmen Region X Division III Women's Basketball Team.

TCC Athletic Director Chad Smith reflected on the recognition and the team's competitive efforts throughout the season.

"The season record doesn't represent what they've done in terms of competitive play. By being recognized by peers [in the division], it really shows their impact and speaks to their competitive ability."

Head Women's Coach Rebecca Kershaw said the recognition represents an important milestone for the athletes and the program.

"All-Region honors is a transformative milestone for these athletes, marking the transition from 'potential' to 'proven talent.' Having reached the top tier of the region, athletes often shift their focus to mentoring younger teammates, which prepares them for leadership roles in their future careers."

Sophomore Aaliyah Price was excited to find out she earned All-Region honors, "It means a lot, especially with us playing for a first-year program, so, you know, getting the recognition that we deserve was pretty awesome."

Price said she felt motivated by TCC Stormbird leadership.

"The coaches definitely helped. They pushed the team to just be better than what we were the day before," Price said.

Sophomore Mackenzie Whitehead emphasized the importance of teamwork and how her achievements were supported by the people around her. She also hopes to encourage others through her experience.

"Stay confident in not only yourself, but your teammates and coaches, too."

Price and Whitehead are both planning on returning for another season and have hopes of winning more games and making it the postseason play.

"Having players earn All-Region recognition is groundbreaking because it sets the tone for our new program and proves that hard work, consistency, and confidence pay off," Coach Kershaw said.

Kershaw also highlighted the leadership styles of several players on the team. She stated that Price is the most introverted player but can lead the team in graceful silence by example on the court and in the classroom. She also emphasized that Whitehead was the most consistent vocal leader who worked hard daily. Both players were season starters and played in the total 16 games for the Lady Stormbirds.

Coach Kershaw also brought up Licata being named to the All-Freshmen Region X Division III Women's Basketball Team. She said that Licata always led with an "unwavering positive attitude" despite facing numerous challenges including a concussion and sprained ankle.

Licata started 13 of the 15 games she played and hit the winning three-point buzzer beater in a game against the Prince George Community College last November.

"I was extremely happy and blessed to learn that I was named to the All-Freshman team. It felt amazing to know that all the hard work and all the hours I've spent putting in the work pay off," Licata said.

Overall, Coach Kershaw was proud of the entire women's team during their first season.

"The young ladies persevered through multiple setbacks and challenges that were beyond their control. They remained engaged and took pride in representing TCC Women's Basketball. They have also gained confidence in themselves, their teammates, and the coaching staff.

Coach Kershaw expects to see continued growth within her team.

"Our high expectations for academic and athletic achievement are establishing a legacy where being a "Storm" athlete is synonymous with being a leader in the community."

TCC Stormbirds will start their competitive play season on November 1st.