April 17, 2008

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - University of Memphis Head Coach April Jauregui announced today that Kelsey Knoche has signed her National Letter of Intent to play her college volleyball career in the blue and gray. Knoche, who was recruited by former Tiger coach Carrie Yerty, is the first signee under first-year coach Jauregui.

"Kelsey is a phenomenal athlete who will add depth to both our outside and right side hitter positions," said Jauregui. "She is passionate about the game, eager to learn and ready to take on this new challenge. I have no doubt that she'll fit in well with our team and style of play. I am looking forward to coaching her for the next four years."

An outside hitter from Lee's Summit, Mo., Knoche will join her close friend and classmate Lizzy Simonin, who signed with Head Coach Brooks Monaghan's Lady Tigers soccer program, on the U of M campus. Knoche comes to Memphis after a highly decorated high school career on the hardwood as well as the volleyball court. The six-foot Knoche earned several honors and set a plethora of records in her prep career at Lee's Summit. The Tigers' 2007 co-captain, hauled in All-State, All-Region, All-Metro, All-District and All-Conference accolades while at LSHS. A Missouri All-Star selection, Knoche hammered home 346 kills and added59 services aces in her final high school campaign. She holds the school's record for kills and aces in a career. Knoche played club volleyball for the KC Power Volleyball Club. She was also recruited by New Mexico State, George Washington, Mississippi State and TCU.

"Memphis was the school I felt most comfortable at," said Knoche. "I liked the girls (on the team) and the coaches immediately. They all made me feel welcome."

A talented shooter on the Tigers' girl's hoops team, Knoche served as the team's co-captain, leading LHS to the district and sectional titles in the 2007-08 season. She garnered All-Area accolades and was a two-time All-Suburban Big 6 First Team honoree. As a senior, she averaged 9.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists and a steal. She was also tabbed an All-District performer after leading Lee's Summit to an Elite 8 appearance in the Missouri State Tournament.

The multi-sport standout also participated in track and field where she competed in the high jump, long jump and the 4x400 relay. She holds the LSHS high jump record.

Knoche is also a standout in the classroom, earning a 3.9 GPA. She was tabbed the KMBC-9 News Scholar Athlete for Kansas City, as well as being inducted into the National Honor Society and serving as Vice President of Student Senate at Lee's Summit High. Knoche plans to major in business at Memphis.