April 13, 2012
SEATTLE - One of the top middle blocker prospects in the nation, Lianna Sybeldon of Folsom, California has joined the Husky women's volleyball program, submitting her National Letter of Intent this Wednesday. Sybeldon becomes the third member of the Washington Class of 2012. Head Coach Jim McLaughlin says that "aside from having very good physical ability," the 6-foot-2 Sybeldon "has got the intangibles we look for. Her heart is set on becoming a great player. I really believe, based on what I've seen, she is going to do what it takes. Everyone I've talked to about her said that she's a kid will do whatever it takes. Those kids are the most fun to work with. So I can't wait to get her up here. She's a good kid from a great family and has the right values in place." Sybeldon was named to the Under Armour All-America Second Team by the American Volleyball Coaches Assocation, one of fifteen middle blockers on the first or second teams. She also was named to the prestigious Senior Aces list by PrepVolleyball.com, listed at No. 45 overall, and described by the list's author John Tawa as "A very explosive athlete. Sybeldon has really begun to tap into her athletic potential in the past year. A gym rat with superb core strength and agility, few work harder ... than Sybeldon. Blessed with an infectious personality, coaches, teammates and fans alike will love Sybeldon." She played high school volleyball for Ponderosa High School, and club ball with NCVC (Northern California Volleyball Club). She was named to the MaxPreps All-State First Team for Division-II as a senior, leading her team to the sectional playoffs. She was also an All-State Second Team selection her junior year. Sybeldon joins a Husky class that also features libero Cassie Strickland from Huntington Beach, California, and Katy Beals, a setter from Austin, Texas. |
