    |
  Athletics Latest News and Signings |
|
Mount Vernon Nazarene University |
News
Lady Cougars Land Mason Volleyball Standoutwritten by Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director
MOUNT
VERNON, Ohio - The Mount Vernon Nazarene University women's
volleyball team has added a key recruit to its roster for the
2003 season with the addition of Dawn Lower.
Lower, a 6-foot middle hitter from Mason, Ohio, has signed a letter of intent to further her education and continue her volleyball career at MVNU. As a senior at Mason High School, she smashed 135 kills to go with 28 digs, 70 blocks, and 10 aces as she led the team to a conference championship and the district finals. For her efforts, Lower was named to the All-Conference First Team after being selected as the Conference Player of the Year as a junior and being named to the All-City Second Team. She also served as a captain on the team and was a four-year member of the All-Conference Academic Team.
"We are excited to have Dawn join our team," said MVNU head coach Paul Swanson, who has led the Lady Cougars to a 652-228 record (.741 winning percentage) in his 19 seasons at the helm. "She is a fine all-around player, who has enjoyed a great high school career and is well-prepared for the college game."
"We like the fact that we are adding a high quality, well-rounded person to our team in Dawn," Swanson added. "She will join a long list of successful volleyball players who have majored in Education."
In addition to playing volleyball, Lower is a member of National Honor Society. She has also received a Citizenship Award, an Integrity Award, and a Sportsman Leadership Award.
"There are several reasons why I chose MVNU," said Lower of her college choice. "I really connected with the volleyball coach and players there. The school also has a good Christian influence, and it is closer to home."
The Lady Cougars finished the 2002 season with a 36-13 overall record. The team advanced to the NAIA Region IX Tournament for the ninth straight year and lost in the semifinals to Walsh University, the eventual region champion. MVNU also finished second at the National Christian College Athletic Association National Tournament - the team's highest ever finish at the event.