West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois Volleyball team has announced the addition of four new recruits to their 2025 class. The Leathernecks have signed two hitters, a setter, and a libero on National Signing Day.

Ella Haines, a libero from Verona, Wisconsin, was noted for her leadership in digs and receptions during her senior year. She captained her high school team and played club volleyball with Madtown Juniors. Haines expressed enthusiasm about joining WIU: "I knew it from the moment I first talked to the coaches and players that the team is a family that values hard work, discipline and growth."

Caroline Clayton joins as an outside hitter from Lenexa, Kansas. Her achievements include being named to the AVCA Phenom watch list as a freshman and earning All-Sunflower League Honorable Mention honors as a sophomore. Clayton appreciated Macomb's environment: "The environment was amazing and I wanted a smaller college feel."

Audrey Pender, another hitter standing six feet tall from Rogers, Arkansas, earned several accolades including Offensive Player of the Year during her junior year. Pender chose WIU for its coaching staff: "I really love the coaching staff and how honest both Coach Starr and Coach Alex are with me."

Lastly, Jaleah Bauss from Frisco, Texas will join as a setter. With seven years of club volleyball experience under her belt, Bauss emphasized the welcoming nature of WIU's people: "The people are what definitely drew me to WIU."

These recruits will join Western Illinois University in pursuit of athletic success while contributing to the Leathernecks' volleyball program.

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