One of the Triangle's most successful high school volleyball coaches will not return to the hardwood next season.

Nikki O'Connell, who guided Apex to the 2010 4A state championship with a 27-0 record, stepped down on Wednesday.

The Tri-Nine all-conference volleyball teams were released, and it should be of no surprise that undefeated state champion Apex took home a number of honors. The Cougars swept the coach and player of the year awards and placed two more on the first team.

Upperclassmen became the theme of this year's list as all but six selections were seniors.

For the second straight year, a Green Hope player was awarded the Tri-Nine Conference volleyball Player of the Year. Senior Lindsey O'Connell was named this year's winner after her Falcons finished the year second in the conference with a 17-5 (14-2) record.

Student School Grade

Morgan Williams Cary 12

Kristen  Harris Apex 11

Alston Kearns Apex 11

Jill Edwards Panther Creek 12

Taylor Pritchett Middle Creek   11

Lindsey O’Connell Green Hope 12

Adi Aman Green Hope 12

Camden Spade Athens Drive 12

2^nd Team All Conference

Student School Grade

Megan Gravley Apex 10

Katherine Wu Panther Creek 12

Emily Horton Middle Creek 12

Kaitlin Quinn Green Hope 10

Raquelle Keeton Fuquay-Varina 11

Brandi  Anderson Holly Springs 11

Mollie Schrull Lee County 12

Clarke Glendenning Cary 12

Player of the Year: Lindsey O’Connell Coach of the Year: Nikki O’Connell