Nov. 17, 2008

THIBODAUX, La. - Head Coach Chris Laird and the Nicholls volleyball program inked two players through the early signing period, adding Jennifer Dunn (Tyrone, Ga./Sandy Creek) and Jasmine Harris (Placentia, Calif./Valencia) for the 2009 season.

"Nicholls Volleyball just got better and is very excited about having these two young ladies join our program," Laird stated. "Both come from good high school and club volleyball programs and will challenge for immediate playing time. Their winning attitudes will be great additions to this program."

Dunn, a 5-11 outside hitter, was a member of three-straight region championship teams. This season, she was named to the 2008 Georgia All-Star Team and the GVCA All-State Team. Sandy Creek High School's leader in career aces and kills in a season received First Team All-Area accolades in 2008.

"Jennifer's contribution will be as a good ball control player that also has experience hitting in an offense similiar to ours," noted Laird. "She will improve the level of our game and will not take long to find a spot on the floor."

A three-time student-athlete of the week, Dunn served as captain of her high school team that won the 2008 4-AAAA State Championship.

Harris, a 6-0 middle hitter, was part of the 17 American Junior Olymic team that won the Silver Division this year. A two-time First Team All-Empire League honoree, Harris helped lead Valencia High School to an undefeated season and Empire League Championship in 2006.

"Jasmine's biggest strength will be her blocking and that's an area I would like to see us improve in," Laird added. "Her blocking will change our team dynamics while also giving us a nice target to set the ball to. Her club experience will really benefit this team since she plays in a great area for junior club volleyball. She will also see significant playing time."

Earlier this season, the three-year varsity starter was named athlete of the week and, in 2007, was the athlete of the month.

"These are exciting times for Nicholls Volleyball," said Laird. "These two players will increase our competitiveness and will continue the strides that we've made. Our current players are a big reason these ladies have decided to join us and I know they're excited as well."

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