Women's VolleyBall

Date: 04.06.2010

Age: 90 days

BRISTOL, Tenn. - King College head women's volleyball coach Chris Toomey has announced the signing of four players to his 2010 recruiting class. Added to the 2010 roster will be Kelsey Griffitts, Lindsey Burke, Mariah Herington and Joscelyn Knott.

"I am very excited about these four young ladies," said Toomey who will start his fourth season at the helm in 2010. "I believe we have a group that will work hard to make our team more competitive.  I believe we have strengthened our front row, especially in the middle, by the addition of Kelsey and Mariah while Lindsey and Joscelyn will give us more depth defensively."

Griffitts (Bristol, Va.) comes to King from nearby John Battle High School where she was a two-time all-state selection. The 5-foot-11 middle blocker and right side hitter was one of the top hitting prospects in Virginia. She helped John Battle to the VHSL State Quarterfinals as a junior and senior which included a 20-5 record last season. Griffitts broke the Virginia state record for most career kills with 1,262 in three seasons of varsity play.

"We are honored that Kelsey decided to come to King and believe she will have a stellar career playing for the Lady Tornado," Toomey said about Griffitts. "We have not only signed a tremendous scholar-athlete, but a terrific young lady."

Burke (Nickelsville, Va.) played at Gate City High School where she was a defensive specialist for two VHSL State Championships with two runner-up finishes as well. In 2009 she was selected as the VHSL Group A State Player of the Year along with a spot on the All-State first team. She was the district and region player of the year as well. Burke, at 5-foot-5, earned a spot on the Kingsport Times News Elite Volleyball Team.

"Our program is thrilled to add such a dynamic athlete with Lindsey," Toomey commented.  "Lindsey's athleticism, passion, and competitiveness will make an immediate impact on our team."

Herington (Jonesborough, Tenn.) graduated from Providence Academy. Thanks to her athletic ability, drive and motivation she was able to collect a spot on the Tri-State All-Region and Blue Ridge All-Tournament teams. Herington, a 6-foot middle blocker was selected as Best All-Around at Providence.

"Mariah started volleyball later than most, but has improved at such a rapid rate," Toomey added.  "I believe she has unreal potential and I can't wait to watch her develop and make an impact on our team."

Knott (Lake Mary, Fla.) selected King after her career at Lake Mary Preparatory. The 5-foot-5 defensive specialist was also on the track and field and soccer teams at Lake Mary Prep. She was an all-district selection in 2009 and won the Coach's Award and MVP honors. As a member of the Central Florida Volleyball Club, she was named Best Setter and earned the Coach's Award.

"I have been so impressed by the enthusiasm and energy with which Joscelyn plays the game," commented Toomey. "I believe she will work hard to continue her development as a defensive specialist and setter."

The 2009 Lady Tornado squad went 29-12 and reached the NCCAA National Tournament after reaching the NCCAA Mid-East Region Championship match.

"Most importantly, we have four student-athletes who bring tremendous ability, determined attitudes, and strong Christian character," Toomey said in conclusion.

King opens the 2010 regular season at the Limestone (S.C.) College Tournament on Sept. 3. The home opener against Montreat (N.C.) College will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 8.