Urcan Quits CSUN Volleyball Team

Gene Urcan, a sophomore from Chatsworth High, has left the Cal State Northridge volleyball team, Coach John Price said Friday.

Urcan, the Matadors’ top backup at middle blocker and opposite hitter, was not happy with his role, according to his coach.

Urcan was set to start at middle blocker alongside Craig Hewitt before the arrival of Oliver Heitmann, a member of the German national team. When Heitmann took over in the middle, Urcan was shifted to opposite hitter, and waged a three-way battle for playing time with Jon Baer and Jason Hughes.

Urcan could not be reached for comment and he did not tell Price of any plans to transfer.

“I hope he plays somewhere,” Price said. “He should. He’s a good player.”

Basketball

Junior swingman Shawn Williams was named player of the year by the Tri-Valley League after he led Oak Park to its first league title.

Williams averaged 16.2 points, 7.75 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 3.6 steals per game.