University records shattered by Voelkel

A starter since his first-year, senior forward Brian Voelkel has solidified his place in Catamount history.

The senior passed Kevin Robertson, who graduated in 1992, to become the University’s all-time leading rebounder.

Two weeks after breaking the rebounding record, he also passed Mike Trimboli, who graduated in 2009, to take the spot as Vermont’s all time leading assist man.

Voelkel threw eight assists against Albany University to put his career total to 626, surpassing Trimboli’s mark of 624 set in 2009.

“The records are a great accomplishment,” Voelkel said. “Having my name next to guys like Marqus Blakely and Kevin Robertson for rebounds and Mike Trimboli for assists is an incredible honor.”

Voelkel is the current team leader in rebounds with 8.3 per game, and assists at 5.9 per game.

When Vermont faced off against the University of New Hampshire Jan. 20, Voelkel grabbed 15 rebounds, putting his career total to 1,065.

An understated statistic in basketball, rebounding shows players willingness to work hard.

It also shows their ability to push people around the paint, a trait Voelkel clearly possesses, which is made clear by his recent achievements.

While Voelkel is known for his hard work and strength on the court, he also is able to work the ball around the 3-point line and dish out smooth and accurate passes.

“Brian has some of the best player fundamentals that I have ever seen,” senior Sean Dowling said.

He grabbed 15 rebounds and tossed seven assists in a win against Lamar University in the NCAA tournament two seasons ago, which was the second NCAA tournament win in UVM history.

Voelkel named his teammates as contributing factors in his own accomplishments.

“I think me being able to accomplish these feats has just been a true testament to the teams I have been able to be part of throughout my four years,” Voelkel said.

“I have gotten to play with so many great players who have allowed me to be successful,” he said.

He has been leading rebounder for UVM each season since his first year in 2010, while simultaneously leading the America East conference in 2011 and 2012.

In the midst of all this record breaking, Voelkel and the rest of the team look to cement another trip to the NCAA tournament this March, riding an 11-1 record in their past 12 games.

The Catamounts currently stand tied for first place in the America East conference with Stony Brook University.

They will need to win the America East tournament in order to qualify for the national tournament.

The Cats host the UMass Lowell River Hawks Feb. 12 at Partick Gymnasium.