FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. - Saint Mary's College Volleyball senior Grace Braselton (Grand Rapids, MI) was named the recipient of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association's Volleyball Senior Impact Award, voted on by league coaches, the league announced on Friday.
 
Braselton becomes the first Saint Mary's player to earn the award since it was introduced in 2019 (previously the Sportswoman of the Year award).
 
"Winning the Senior Impact Award is an honor I'll carry with me forever." Braselton said. "I'm grateful for my teammates and everyone who pushed me to grow on and off the court. I'm proud of the impact I've made, and I hope it inspires my teammates and other athletes to take every opportunity and chase their goals with everything they've got."
 
Braselton was recognized with the award for her far-reaching influence at Saint Mary's, her community, and within the MIAA. The Psychology major confidently shows her passion for mental health advocacy that has shaped her team's culture while her enthusiasm for Division III athletics reflects her commitment to supporting and uplifting fellow student-athletes.
 
Braselton was a key instigator for bringing the Red Glasses Movement to the Saint Mary's community. The Red Glasses Movement was started to honor the life of Audrey Louise who passed away at the young age of five in January 2018. Their goal is that everyone who receives a pair of Red Glasses will see the world through Audrey's eyes and will: LIVE BOLDLY, LOVE BIG, PASS IT ALONG.
 
She has also served two years on the Saint Mary's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and currently represents the school on the MIAA SAAC while contributing to the Student Government Committee for SAAC. Braselton's service work includes volunteering with Healthwin Retirement Home while also coaching with NIVA Volleyball Club and working summer camps. She serves as treasurer for the Tennis Club, vice president of the yearbook club, as well as serving as a Mental Health Advocate for the volleyball program, leading a weekly initiative called Mindset Matters. Braselton also works during game days in her offseason for the athletic department, supporting other Saint Mary's sports teams. She also traveled to Greece last summer to study abroad.
 
In January, Braselton will attend the NCAA Convention as Saint Mary's student representative, continuing her interest in coaching and athletics leadership. Grace is also involved in research with Dr. Bettina Spencer on trust and communication in coach-athlete relationships.
 
On the court, Braselton set a career high with 145 kills this season, playing a key role off the bench for the Belles. She finishes her Saint Mary's career with 401 kills in 85 matches and 286 sets. She also added 183 digs and 122 blocks in her career.
 
After graduation, Grace plans on attending graduate school in North Carolina to receive her Masters of Education in School Counseling and become a high school guidance counselor and coach high school volleyball.
 
View the MIAA Official Release.