Volleyball Sings Five Players

August 5, 2009

WEATHERFORD, Okla. - Southwestern Oklahoma State University has signed five volleyball standouts to National Letters of Intent (NLI) and will join the Bulldog team for the upcoming 2009 season, SWOSU fifth-year coach Bo Pagliasotti announced.

SWOSU's recruiting class includes Kristie Porter, a 5-7 setter from Waller (Texas) High School, Nichole Straub, a 5-9 outside hitter from Wamego (Kan.) High School and transfers Samantha King, a 5-9 middle blocker from South Mountain (Ariz.) Community College, Marisela Moreno, a 5-10 middle blocker from Vernon (Texas) Junior College, and Danielle Nelms, a 6- middle blocker from Clarendon College.

"I'm excited about this year's group of signees and look forward to their joining the SWOSU volleyball program this fall," Pagliasotti said "They possess the size, the quickness and the athleticism that will make them great assets to our program in the seasons ahead. Our volleyball staff has done an outstanding job of recruiting players that will have an opportunity to excel on the volleyball court, in the classroom and in the Weatherford community."

The following is brief comments from Pagliasotti regarding each of the new players.

Kristie Porter, 5-7, Fr., S, Waller, TX
"Kristie will be a great asset to the Bulldog squad.  Her strong background with winning programs in the talent-rich Houston area have prepared her for what promises to be a very successful freshman year. "

Nichole Straub, 5-9, Fr., OH, Wamego, KS
"Nichole is a solid all-around player who could see action in both the outside position and as a DS."

Samantha King, 5-9, So., MB, Gilbert, AZ (South Mountain CC)
"Samantha will begin her career with the Bulldogs this year as a sophomore and should make an immediate impact as a Middle.  Her athleticism and shot selection should allow her to push for more than her share of playing time."

Marisela Moreno, 5-10, Jr., MB, San Antonio, TX (Vernon College)
"Marisela will bring immediate attack ability to the Middle Blocker position.  She has the ability to create openings in the defense."

Danielle Nelms, 6-0, MB, Jr., San Antonio, TX (Clarendon College)
"-Danielle will provide much needed depth and experience as both a strong blocker on the rightside and a powerful force in the middle.  Her ability to adapt will at any position on the front line will allow her to provide an immediate impact on both the offense and defense."