Radford Volleyball Adds Two Outside Hitters

RADFORD, Va. -- Radford University women’s volleyball coach Michael Burch announced today that the Highlanders have added outside hitters Lindsey Poole and Lindsay Rupert during the late signing period, inking both to National Letters of Intent.

Poole is a 6-0 senior at Tennessee High School, where she was an All-Conference and All-District Tournament performer for coach Peggy Dempsey. A native of Bristol, Tenn., Poole also qualified for the Tennessee State Swim Meet. An All-District and All-Conference performer as a senior in high school, Poole led her club team, the Cobra Juniors, to the 2004 North Carolina 18U Power Regional Championships. Poole also has had tremendous success as a student, including earning a spot among Who’s Who of American High School Students for two consecutive years.

“Lindsey is a natural athlete, not only playing volleyball but qualifying for the Tennessee state swim meet. Her explosiveness and ability to play multiple positions makes her a perfect fit in our system,” Burch said. “We look forward to adding her high flying ability to our offense and defensive front line.

She combines a quick towering vertical with the ability to see the court, making her a very effective player.”

Rupert, a Staunton, Va. native, was All-District all four years at Robert E. Lee High School for coach Molly Stinespring. She was named All-State as a senior and participated in the Virginia High School League (VHSL) All-Star game. In addition, the 5-10 Rupert has been honored for her work in the classroom, finishing in the top 10 in her class and serving as a member of the National Honor Society.

“Watching Lindsay play you see the immediate impact she has on her teammates. She is a natural leader and motivator and can keep her team focused and moving forward,” Burch said. “Lindsay will have an immediate impact on our work ethic. She is a hard-working player that will be relentless in her pursuit of excellence.”

Both players will join RU this fall as freshman with four years of eligibility. Radford finished the 2004 season 3-24 overall, 0-14 in Conference play.