Houghton University Athletics

Virnna Vidaurri Sabine, a graduate of the Class of 1987, was the ideal example of the true Christian student-athlete. She excelled both in the classroom and as an athlete. As a student, she majored in biology and minored in both chemistry and math. Her many accomplishments in the classroom were highlighted when she was recognized at graduation as the valedictorian of her class. 

Her athletic achievements were also more-than-noteworthy. She was a two-sport athlete who participated in volleyball and track and field.  She established her place in the track and field annals when she set what was then a school record for the javelin with a throw of 116’ 8” in 1987. Her main claim to fame, however, was in volleyball where during her career the team established an amazing won-loss record of 100 wins, 55 losses and 2 ties. They appeared in the NCCAA District II Finals all four of Virnna’s years and won the championship twice. They also qualified for the National Tournament all four years, placing fourth in her junior year and fifth in her senior year. 

In addition to her many team accomplishments; Virnna was recognized as an outstanding player in her own right. She was recognized by the NCCAA as an All-District Player, an All-American and as an NCCAA Scholar-Athlete. She highlighted her senior season by being chosen as the “Susan R. Hellings Award” winner, which is the NCCAA’s award for the National Player of the Year.