June 21, 2007

4 More Committed from the Very Successful Mystery Team - Smith, Gabello, Schroeder, Bartz

Joanne Smith-SUNY Geneseo College

The Knights of SUNY Geneseo are getting a great player in Joanne Smith. A senior outside from Greece Olympia, Joanne chose the school for its phenomenal academics, and competitive athletic program.

"I chose Geneseo because of its beautiful campus and phenomenal academic offerings. My interest in biology helped me decide upon it as well, they just built a multi-million dollar biology research facility which will help with my pre-med major. I love the location, close to home, yet far enough away to be independent. The school is also small, but not too small, so it's perfect for me and the althetic program is still competitive."

Head coach Bouaketh Chanthavisouk will be entering her 2nd season with the Knights, who finished 21-17 in her first season.

Congrats Joanne!

Jenna Gabello-University at Buffalo

Jenna Gabello, of Mystery, is off to run with the Bulls at the University at Buffalo. A senior libero at West Irondequoit High School, Jenna knew just want she was looking for in a school, and is excited to get her college career started.

"I knew exactly what I wanted in a school- strong academics with a solid team, coaches that were passionate and inspiring, no fields, barns, or cows in sight. UB offered me all of that and more. It is the perfect match for me, nothing compared."

Head Coach, Jim Lodes, will be entering his third season at UB. The Bulls went 3-13 in the MAC and 14-20 overall this past season. Jenna, along with Lindsey Schlegel, will be joining former VFXers Kate Love and Rachel Smith.

Congrats Jenna, and good luck!

Shavaughn Bartz-Roberts Weslyan College

The Raiders of Roberts Weslyan garnered a great catch with Shavaughn Bartz. Shavaughn, a senior setter from Byron Bergen High School, recorded 2,272 assists on her career and helped lead her team to three consecutive Class C State Championships from 2004-2006. Roberts graduated both of its setters and is ready for Shavaughn to come in and make an impact.

"Once I finally decided, it was just such a relief. I met a lot of nice coaches and good people, but the teams weren't at the same par that I was looking for. And (St. Lawrence was) too far away from home, I want to come back and watch Byron-Bergen too because our team was just so close. We were like family and I didn't want to leave that behind. Roberts is a real good place for academics and athletics; it's a great balance there."

Head Coach Jim Vanderhoof is starting his 13th season at Roberts and is very excited about Shavaughn's commitment. "We're very happy to have Shavaughn join our volleyball program next year. She comes from a highly successful high school and club program and will add a great deal of experience and expertise in our setter's position. She is a hard worker and will have a positive impact on the team."

Roberts Weslyan is a NAIA school and a member of the American Mideast Conference. They finished the 2006 season 22-14.

Best of luck Shavaughn!

Alison Schroeder-Clarkson University

Alison Schroeder is also off to become a Knight, a Golden Knight of Clarkson University that is. The senior libero from Webster Thomas chose Clarkson for its good coaching and endless opportunities.

"I chose Clarkson because Coach Johan seems like he really knows what he is doing, and I wanted good coaching. I also chose it because it is a good school with a lot of opportunities, but it is not too huge. I visited, and I didn't realize how far North it was, and I absolutely love the upper upstate. The coach worked hard to give me a pleasant visit. It just felt comfy."

Head Coach Johan Dufler will be starting his second season at Clarkson. The Golden Knights have reached the New York State Tournament in two of the last three seasons.

Good luck Alison!

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