Bowling Green State University Athletics
Falcon Volleyball Program Signs Four
November 13, 2003 | Volleyball
Nov. 13, 2003
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Bowling Green State University volleyball head coach Denise Van De Walle has announced the signing of four student-athletes to National Letters of Intent. Kendra Halm, Maggie Karges, Madeline Means and Stephanie Swiger will join the Falcons for the 2004-05 academic year.
"I couldn't be happier with this recruiting class," said Van De Walle. "All four of these players are true student-athletes. Their athletic ability and academic success make them the total package. I believe they are the perfect fit for Bowling Green."
Halm, a native of Bucyrus, Ohio, currently attends Bucyrus High School. This fall, the 5-11 hitter posted 275 kills and 155 blocks in 24 matches. She helped coach Kevin Moore's team to an 11-13 record this season en route to being named to the first-team All-NCC, as well as being named team's best offensive player. She was also participated in two all-star matches and was named Honorable Mention District IV.
"Kendra is a diamond in the rough," said Van De Walle. "She is a gifted athlete. She has a great jump and blocks very well. She needs to learn more about the game at a high level. I'm hoping her club experience this spring will help with that. Once she feels comfortable with the pace of the collegiate game I think she will dominate the net."
Karges, a native of Joliet, Ill., currently attends Joliet Catholic Academy. This fall, the 5-10 left-side hitter helped the Angels to a 36-2-1 overall record and an ESCC Conference Championship with a 9-0 record. Despite missing eight games with an ankle injury Karges still posted 211 digs and 280 kills in her shortened season. She was named first-team by Joliet Herald News, Chicago Sun Times and the Daily Southtown.
"Maggie is training with one of the best club programs in the country," said Van De Walle. "By the time she gets here she should be ready to be on the floor. Her ball control and jumping ability make her an ideal left side hitter. She will be vying for a starting spot right away"
Means, a native of Caledonia, Mich., currently attends East Kentwood High School. This fall, the 5-10 hitter, posted 432 kills and 308 digs en route to being named to the All-Conference and All-Region team. The Roxane Steenhuysen coached team posted a 54-18 overall record and a 10-2 Conference Championship.
"Madeline is a tremendous athlete," said Van De Walle. "She is a great soccer player as well. I'm looking forward to watching her develop now that she will only play volleyball. She's strong and jumps well. She's competitive and comes from a high school program rich in winning tradition."
Swiger, a native of Findlay, Ohio, currently attends Findlay High School. The 6-0 middle hitter has helped the Trojans to a League Championship and a 23-2 overall record. She was named Greater Buckeye Conference Player of the Year, as well as District 8 Player of the Year. For the 2003-04 season she posted 167 kills, 61 blocks and 79 digs.
"Steph is an intense competitor," said Van De Walle. "She plays with a lot of heart and passion like Caty Rommeck did. She will bring a fiery spirit to the team. Once she understands the system here she should be on the floor right away."
The Falcons are 12-16 overall and 4-10 in Mid-American Conference play, heading to Friday's match (11/14) at Western Michigan. The contest will begin at 7:00 p.m.
