To be inducted in the California Baptist University Hall of Fame is an honor only 65 athletes have achieved since 1983. Taking the No. 66 spot for his contributions to the men’s volleyball team in his career at CBU is Blair Penner, alumnus.
Penner, the current assistant coach to the women’s volleyball team, was a member of the men’s team from 2008-2011. In his freshman season, he played in 27 matches and finished with 24 aces, 140 assists and 89 kills, and led the team with 66 blocks.
After five seasons with the team he was named the AVCA/NAIA Men’s National Player of the Year, earning first-team All-American honors in 2010 and 2011.
Penner helped lead the team to two national titles in 2010 and 2011 and currently holds the career records in assists with 4,065 and in aces with 188. He also holds the single season record for assists with 1,524 and the single match assist record with 81.
After his season in 2011, he came onto the coaching staff for the women’s volleyball team where he serves as the assistant coach. Dr. Micah Parker, athletic director for CBU, said Penner is arguably the best setter to come through CBU.
“All (his stats) and the fact that he’s just a general all-around good guy, had made myself and our Hall of Fame Committee feel that he definitely needs to be in our Lancer Hall of Fame,” Parker said.
Penner will be inducted to the Hall of Fame in April 2017 and will be the second current assistant coach to be inducted.
