Former Lady'Back Santiago earns defensive award

FAYETTEVILLE — Former University of Arkansas volleyball player Yarleen Santiago was named best defender at the 2006 Pan American Cup recently. Santiago, a member of the Puerto Rican National Team, played volleyball for the Lady Razorbacks from 1997-99 and was a three-time all-Southeastern Conference selection. She helped the Puerto Rican team to a 4-1 record in pool play and a fifth place finish in the 12-team event. The United States finished fourth overall. While at Arkansas Santiago hit .270 with 1342 kills, 1277 digs and 393 total blocks. She still holds the Arkansas single-match record for kills in a match with 37 and is second all-time for digs in a match with 30. The 2006 edition of the Arkansas volleyball team is preparing for the start of the season. The Lady’Backs’ first practice is scheduled for Aug. 9, with the team hosting an Alumni Match Aug. 19, at 1:30 p.m., in Barnhill Arena. For more information about Arkansas volleyball, log on to LADYBACKS.COM. Yarleen Santiago’s Career Stats at Arkansas