Drever, Morris-Utu sign to play at next level

By TJ MAXWELL

Cove Leader-Press

You can always tell a program’s success by the opportunities provided to the athletes when they’re playing time ends. That fact is evident in seven of eight seniors that have signed to continue their volleyball careers at the next level. “We could not have had a 37-11 season this year without either one of these two young women,” said head volleyball coach Cari Lowery.” We have eight seniors this year and this is number six and seven that are signing a letter of intent to go play in college.” Lily Drever signed a letter of intent to play for Abilene Christian University and Raelynn Morris-Utu is following teammate Destinee Branch to Dallas Christian. The eighth senior, Ciara Cheadle, who is sidelined with a torn Achilles tendon injury, is expected to make it a clean sweep when she commits in the final signing ceremony in May. Paris Junior College is on the short list for Cheadle. “It’s amazing,” said Drever. “I’m relieved. I get to enjoy my senior year now and don’t have to worry about anything. I am proud of all of my teammates who have signed too.” Drever is going on to play for the Division I Wildcats. She was second on the team in digs last season behind all-state libero Lexi Smith, She had 493 digs and received 298 serves. She also led the team in aces with 33 and had a 99 percent serve percentage. It didn’t take long for her to find her new home. “I went to visit the campus and I really loved it there,” she said. “I like the Christian environment and that’s what I wanted. I just feel like it was right for me. I really like the coaches a lot. They really seemed fun to be around. I was really impressed with the gym and the facilities and the campus is so beautiful.” Morris-Utu had to choose between two loves – volleyball and softball. “I was looking to play both softball and volleyball but they didn’t have softball,” she said. “It’s kind of heart-breaking at the same time, but whatever works, that’s what I’ll roll with.” She is thrilled at the opportunity to continue her career and to do it with family and friends. She will join teammate Branch, who signed in an earlier ceremony, and her cousin Carlie Tuiasosopo, a transfer from North Lake College. “I already feel welcome,” she said.” There are already people there that are family. It feels amazing, I have been waiting for this forever. Now that its here, I’m nervous. It’s breathtaking. It’s a blessing.” Morris-Utu summed it up best for all the athletes leaving their high school careers behind for the greener pastures of college. “The ride has been amazing,” she said. “If I could relive it, I would.” “I’m really proud of all of them,” said Lowery. “This senior class is one of my favorites.”