ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Roberts Wesleyan University women's volleyball team proudly welcomes seven new players for the upcoming season.
The incoming class student-athletes from six different states and Canada.
"We are very excited about all of our new players," Roberts coach
Andy Braun said. "We are excited about the athleticism that this group brings. They have all played high-level club volleyball, so they are experienced.
"We are also excited about who they are as people and how the seven newcomers and five returnees will jell together."
The Redhawks also welcome two new managers - Molly Goulette and Abby Reitnour.
Roberts will open its season on Sept. 4 at the Clarion University Tournament.
Let's meet the newest Redhawks:
Serréa Battle
Position: Outside Hitter/Middle Blocker
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Chattanooga, Tenn.
High school: Chattanooga School for Liberal Arts
Major: Mathematics
Why did you choose Roberts? "I fell in love with the campus! When I first reached out to Coach Braun, I had intentions to come to Roberts to still be close to family but I fell in love! Reviewing photos online and arriving in person were so different, yet so rewarding. I also really liked that Robert's has a very diverse campus."
Position: Defensive Specialist/Outside Hitter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Laurel, Md.
High school: Reservoir
Major: Forensic Science
Before Roberts: Overcame an injury that prevented her from playing her junior season to be selected first-team all-county as a senior. Served as a captain her junior and senior seasons as Reservoir won the 4A Regional Championship. Named Most Improved Player on her CVA 18 club team. Member of Red Cross Club.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts Wesleyan to continue my athletics and academic journey due to the welcoming and positive environment. As soon as I stepped on campus, I felt the warmth from all my peers and felt welcomed and at home. I immediately knew I wanted to spend my next four years here."
Position: Middle Hitter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Puyallup, Wash.
High school: Puyallup
Major: Psychology
Before Roberts: Served as team captain for two seasons on team that finished in top five at the state tournament. Registered 108 kills, 64 service points, 32 blocks and 44 digs as a senior.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts Wesleyan University because of the many kind and welcoming people I met on my visit. It also has the major I want to pursue, and I will get to play in a competitive environment."
Position: Setter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Newark, N.Y.
High school: Newark
Major: Exercise Science
Before Roberts: Served as a team captain at Newark High School, where she was a four-time team MVP and set the school record for number of aces in a season. Served as Class President and was also a member of National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Student Council, Link Crew, Varsity Club and the Environmental Club.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts because of the good Occupational Therapy program and strong volleyball team. There was a good balance of both for me."
Position: Setter/Outside Hitter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Kitchener, Ontario
High school: Cameron Heights Collegiate
Major: Business Administration
Before Roberts: Received several honors for high school volleyball team that won regional championship, including a Gold Regional Medal and Bronze Provincial Medal. Won MVP at an All-Star Game, was recognized as an Award of Excellence winner and received her high school's Teammate Award. Also competed in basketball and track and field.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts Wesleyan because it felt like the right fit both athletically and academically. The volleyball program stood out to me right away, the coaching staff was welcoming and interested in helping me grow as both a player and a person. I'm excited to join a team that values hard work, teamwork, and a strong sense of community. Academically, I'm pursuing a degree in Business Administration. I believe it will prepare me for success in the business world while also encouraging me to lead with integrity."
Position: Defensive Specialist
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Hot Springs, Ark.
High school: Lakeside
Major: Nursing
Before Roberts: Three-sport athlete in high school who compiled 290 digs and 58 assists in a season, including 36 digs in a match. Also competed in track and soccer, making it to states three years in a row as a high jumper, with a top mark of 5-feet, 2-inches. Also participated in and volunteered with Adopt-A-Ram, Special Olympics and All Created Equal clubs and organizations.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts because of the family-like culture, the outstanding Nursing program, and the competitive environment on the volleyball court."
Position: Outside Hitter/Defensive Specialist
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio
High school: Pickerington North
Major: Sports Management and Marketing
Before Roberts: Overcame three surgeries and two missed seasons to earn a starting position on the varsity team. Appeared in 79 sets as a senior and recorded 93 digs, 31 aces and 11 assists while receiving 199 serves. An Advanced Placement Art student, her work was entered in several shows and competitions. Participated in peer collaboration.
Why did you choose Roberts? "I chose Roberts because I wanted to go to a school that prioritized diversity and pushing their students to try new things. I wanted a school that would help me further my connection with God and allow me to get to know more people that want to do the same thing."
