Shepherd University Athletics

SHEPHERD VOLLEYBALL INKS FOUR

SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. -- Shepherd University head volleyball coach Sarah Smith announced today that four student-athletes have signed letters-of-intent to play volleyball for the Rams in 2005. Ashley Bennett (Inwood, WV/Musselman HS), Emma Bullock (Ellicott City, MD/Glenelg HS), Brittany Clem (Edinburg, VA/Stonewall Jackson HS), and Jade Jean (Martinsburg, WV/Martinsburg HS) will join the Rams this year.

Smith, first-year head coach for the Rams, is excited about the upcoming season. The four newcomers will join an experienced group of seven veterans, including six upperclassmen. Smith expects the Rams to again be among the top teams in the conference after Shepherd posted a 22-16 mark with a 14-4 WVIAC record to finish fourth in the regular season standings in 2004.

"I am very pleased with our recruiting class and the returning group," stated Smith. "Five of our returnees have seen considerable playing time. We are building the foundation of a program that I expect to consistently compete for the conference title."

Below are capsules on the 2005 recruiting class.

Ashley Bennett, a 5-4 setter, was a standout at Musselman. Bennett earned All-Area honors from The Journal and was a Second Team All-State selection.

"Ashley is a hard worker who is expected to make an immediate impact on the team," noted Smith. "Her club setting experience will greatly benefit our team."

Emma Bullock, a 5-6 outside hitter, comes to Shepherd from a strong volleyball program at Glenelg.

"Emma is a solid passer and defender," said Smith. "She is a hard worker and I expect her to become a presence for us on the outside."

Brittany Clem, a 5-8 outside hitter, was a three-sport standout (volleyball, basketball, track) at Stonewall Jackson. Clem gained First Team All-District and Second Team All-Area honors in volleyball.

"Brittany is a solid athlete who will come to Shepherd as a role player," said Smith. "She has the potential to become a big contributor for us."

Jade Jean, a 6-0 right side/middle, is expected to play both volleyball and softball at Shepherd. Jean transferred to Martinsburg from Deer Creek High School in Edmond, OK, where she was a member of the 2002 3A Softball State Champion team.

"Jade will compete in two sports here at Shepherd," said Smith "She is a good athlete and will help us out on the court with her hard work."

2005 Shepherd Volleyball Recruits

Name Pos. Ht. Hometown/High School

Ashley Bennett S 5-4 Inwood, WV/ Musselman HS

Emma Bullock OH 5-6 Ellicott City, MD/Glenelg HS

Brittany Clem OH 5-8 Edinburg, VA/Stonewall Jackson HS

Jade Jean RS/M 6-0 Martinsburg, WV/Martinsburg HS