Valparaiso University head volleyball coach Carin Avery has announced four players that signed National Letters of Intent during the early signing period to play for the Crusaders beginning in 2004.

Joining the Crusaders roster will be Sara Hughes, Amy Palash, Tiffany Meikle, and Nicole Schulz.

Hughes is a 5'8" setter from Perrysburg, Ohio. She is the all-time leader in assists and service aces at Perrysburg High School for both single season and career records. Hughes was a First Team All-Northern Lakes League selection for the Yellow Jackets and a First Team All-District 7 selcetion.

?Sara is a fiery little competitor that will be fun to watch," said Avery. ?She continues to grow every year in the setting position."

Palash is a 5'11" outside hitter from Wheaton, Ill. She led Saint Francis High School to the Class A state championship as both a junior and senior. Palash was a First Team All-State selection by the Chicago Tribune following her senior season.

?Amy is an outstanding volleyball player," Avery said. ?She is from a great club and high school program and will be ready to play right away for us."

Meikle arrives at Valpo from Monona Grove High School. A native of Cottage Grove, Wis., the 5'10" outside hitter was a Fourth Team All-State selection as a senior and an Honorable Mention All-State selection in 2002. A three-time First Team All-Conference selection, Meikle led Monona Grove in kills and digs each of her last two years.

?Tiffany, like Amy, is a great outside hitter," said Avery. ?Her ball control will be a key for us. The duo could become two of the best outside hitters we have had at Valpo."

Schulz is a 6'1" middle blocker from Jackson, Wis. She led Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School to a state championship in 2003 and was a Second Team All-Conference selection. Schulz also has earned Scholar-Athlete honors in Wisconsin.

?Nicole gets better and better every time she plays," said Avery. ?Once she learns the college game she will be a force in the middle for us."