Kats ink four during early signing period
11/18/2014 12:31:00 PM | Women's Volleyball
Taylor Cunningham of Huntsville, Amanda Gooch of Iola, Maggie Revell of Clear Creek and Jaclyn Ward of Spring have signed letters-of-intent to attend Sam Houston State University and play volleyball for Bearkat head coach Brenda Gray next year.
Cunningham is a 5-11 middle blocker / outside hitter for the Hornets who has totaled more than 700 kills, 150 blocks and 1100 digs the past two seasons. She helped lead Huntsville to the 2014 District 18-5A championship.
“Taylor can play all six rotations on the court either as a middle blocker or an outside hitter,” Gray said. “She provides skills that will help us defensively. She also holds a high ranking in her class as a student.”
Gooch is a 5-10 student-athlete who also plays both middle blocker and outside hitter. She has earned all-district, all-region and all-state honors the past three years and is a two-time district “Most Valuable Player.” She also played for Brazos Valley Juniors club team. With a 3.8 grade point average, she also is an academic all-district selection. She is the president of Iola's National Honor Society chapter, secretary of the student council and a member of BJV, FCA and FFA.
“Amanda is a versatile player who can serve, pass, hit, block and set,” Gray said. “Her attitude and competitive nature makes her presence known on the court.”
Revell is a 6-1 middle Blocker from Clear Creek High School, has led her team deep into the playoffs. She played for Absolute Volleyball Academy. Academically she ranks among the top 15 percent in her class.
“Maggie establishes a large presence as a middle blocker, moving well from pin to pin to close the block from opposing team's hitters,” Gray said. “She works hard in transition, allowing her to become an option as a quick tempo hitter.”
Ward is a 5-8 setter from Oak Ridge High School has earned first team all-district and second team all-county honors. In the classroom, she holds a 3.68 grade point average. She played for Willowbrook volleyball club.
“Jackie brings the leadership we look for in a setter but also can take command blocking at the net,” Gray said. .”She sets consistent balls to the pins and runs a quick offense in transition. She also is quick on defense which adds to her value.”
Both Cunningham and Gooch will join the Bearkats next August for the 2015 fall semester. Revell and Ward will enroll in Sam Houston for the 2015 spring semester.
