Southwest Minnesota State University Athletics

MARSHALL, Minn. - Southwest Minnesota State head volleyball coach Terry Culhane announced today the signing of three student-athletes for the 2010 season.   Rachel Westby from Marshall, Minn., Ellen Degler from Chaska, Minn., and Maggie Lindow from Nevis, Minn., have signed letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at SMSU.  Today is the first day of the early signing period for NCAA volleyball programs.

Westby is currently a senior at Marshall High School where she passed the 1,000-kill mark this past season.  The 5-foot-7 outside hitter is a two-time Minnesota Class AA All-State selection and was also named all-state honorable mention as a sophomore.  A five-year starter, Westby was a member of the 2007 MHS squad that won the Class AA title.

“It’s great for us to have a solid player like Rachel join our program,” said Culhane.  “Her experience and understanding of the game are qualities that are hard to find. She comes from a outstanding high school program and understands what it takes to be successful. Rachel’s ability to handle the ball is something we feel will make her a very solid player in the NSIC.”

Degler will graduate from Chaska High School this spring.  The 6-foot outside hitter was named All-Metro second team and picked up all-state accolades this past season.  Degler has also committed to playing basketball at SMSU.

“We’re very excited to have Ellen join out team,” Culhane said.  “Her versatility as a player will be a tremendous asset for her as she moves onto the college game. Her passion, work ethic and competitive nature are all qualities we look forward to Ellen bringing to our program.”

Lindow, a 5-foot-9 middle blocker/outside hitter, will be a 2010 graduate of Nevis High School.  Lindow picked up Minnesota Class A All-State honors as a junior and senior and eclipsed the 1,000-kill mark this past season.  Lindow has recorded 346 kills and 258 digs in 2009.

“Maggie is a very good athlete with good leaping ability and a quick arm; her athleticism will help her greatly at our level,” Culhane said. “She is a great competitor and has her best volleyball ahead of her. Maggie will be an outstanding teammate and the Southwest Minnesota State Volleyball program is extremely happy to have her join our team.”

No. 13 SMSU (23-7, 13-5 NSIC) closes regular season play at Mary and Northern State this weekend.

Southwest Minnesota State University, located in Marshall, Minn., is a member of NCAA Division II and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference.