The Missouri Valley Vikings have their first-ever first-team All-American selection in men’s volleyball.

Junior opposite Samuel Esselfie was named to the NAIA Men’s Volleyball All-America Team on Thursday, May 8, becoming the second Viking to earn All-American honors in the sport. Esselfie led the Vikings with 293 kills, 634 total attacks, and 333.5 total points. He was also second on team with 156 digs, while adding 15 aces and 42 blocks, guiding the Vikings to a 22-5 record and national semifinal appearance.

Esselfie registered at least 20 kills in four matches this season, including 27 in the regular season finale against Ottawa, and 20 in the Vikings’ five-set victory over defending champions Georgetown College (Ky.) at nationals. Earlier this season, Esselfie was named the Heart of America Athletic Conference’s men’s volleyball co-player of the year.