Polk County senior Kailey Russell recently signed a letter of intent to attend Catawba Valley Community College on a volleyball scholarship. CVCC, an NJCAA Division II school located in Hickory, competes in the Region X Carolinas/Virginia Athletic Conference, and is well known for its powerhouse volleyball program.
Lady Buccaneers head coach Shannon Hudson, entering her third season at CVCC, said Russell first caught the attention of her coaching staff at the beginning of the year during an open gym.
“As soon as I saw Kailey, I knew we needed her,” said Hudson Friday at the signing, held at the Polk County High School library. “We like to go out and find great recruits like Kailey, and we’re really excited to get her.”
Hudson added that she expects Russell to receive significant playing time immediately.
“I really liked all of the facilities,” said Russell, explaining what attracted her to CVCC. “It’s really nice there, and everyone was very welcoming. As soon as I went in, I just got the feeling that that’s where I should be.”
In addition to being named all conference in volleyball last year, Russell also excelled at soccer and basketball.
With nine returning players, including two returning all-conference standouts, expectations will be high this fall at CVCC.
“Kailey is the third girl we’ve signed to the program this year,” said Hudson. “We’ve already picked up a libero and a great setter, so we’re glad to get Kailey as a middle.”