Nov. 10, 2006

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Head coach Carrie Yerty and the University of Memphis program wrapped up its early signing activity with libero Rebecca Shaffer signing her National Letter of Intent to play her college career at Memphis.

"I'm so excited that Rebecca chose to come to Memphis," said Yerty. "With Christen Clayton finishing her career, finding a talented libero was a priority for this signing class. I think Rebecca can step in and make an immediate impact on our defense and I look forward to coaching her."

Shaffer, who was recruited by Division I programs such as Ohio University, Kent State, East Tennessee State and Southern Illinois, will join the Tiger volleyball program after a stellar Prep career at Ursuline Academy in Cincinnati, Ohio. A three-year letterwinner for head coach Jenni Case at Ursuline, she played both Defensive Specialist and Libero as a senior. The 5-4 Shaffer helped direct UA to a 20-7 mark as a senior and logged 275 digs and 42 aces en route to being selected to the Senior Showcase.

Shaffer helped Ursuline to a 20-7 record in her senior season.

Shaffer played club volleyball for the Northern Kentucky Volleyball Club (NKYVC) and helped her team to a Silver Medalist finish in the American Division of the 2006 17-U National Tournament.

"I chose Memphis because the coaches were very involved and made me feel wanted in the recruiting process," said Shaffer. "Memphis was a perfect fit for me--strong athletics and academics in a place that I love, where I know I will feel at home."

An exceptional student-athlete, Shaffer has maintained a 4.89 GPA at Ursuline and earned All-Academic accolades as a senior. Shaffer earned several academic honors in her high school career, including Student of the Year honors in Algebra, Chemistry and Spanish. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Student Athletics Board among other academic organizations.