Division I players don’t get nearly the accolades as some N.C. Central University athletes. Shari Matthews, for example, is a junior outside hitter on the volleyball team, a first-year Eagle, and a jaw-dropping athlete. She broke the record for kills in a match at NCCU (42) and for most kills in a single season (769). In the NCAA Division I, II and III, she ranks second in kills. Think she planned it? Nah.

“It feels kind of unreal because I didn’t plan it,” said Matthews. “I just play because it’s a team sport. Breaking records and winning is an incentive.”

The women’s volleyball team is 13-0 in the CIAA, 25-12 overall. Matthews contributes to her team in many ways.

“She really knows the game,” said sophomore setter Ashley Shade. “I’m better just based on her being on the court and her overall attitude.”

Considering her talents, most would expect Matthews to be arrogant about her accomplishments. She’s just the opposite.

“My team makes it easy for me to do what I do,” Matthews said. “It’s a team effort for me to achieve these records and participate in winning games.”

As the Lady Eagles prepare for CIAA, it looks as if the biggest competition will be themselves.

“I’m looking forward to CIAA championship, but I’m more excited about regionals,” said Nadia Hayes, a freshman middle hitter who felt allegiance to the team before she joined.

“We’ve done the CIAA [championship] thing already. I’m looking past that,” said Hayes.

Coming off a loss at Wingate doesn’t deter the Lady Eagles — especially not Matthews, who looks to break the record for 1000 kills in a season.

“I’m going for it, if it’s possible,” Matthews said, laughing.