Debbie Surgi - September 1981 Athlete of the Month
Volleyball, University of New Orleans
Surgi, a senior and captain of the UNO volleyball team, was selected as the Sugar Bowl Athlete of the Month for September of 1981. A starter for the last three years, Surgi was honored for leading her team to a 14-1 record during September as she contributed 30 service aces in 15 matches. Twice she had six service aces in a match.Â
Surgi received stiff competition for the award from two prep football players. West Jefferson's Gary James averaged 144 yards per game during the month, incuding a 200-yard, four-touchdown performance against Shaw; and Shaw's Mike Toups rused for over 100 yards in three straight games.
Surgi is the third female winner in 1981. Sandra Hodge, UNO's star basketball player, became the first female athlete to be cited two straight months when she was honored in January and February.
