Shepherd University head volleyball coach Sarah Smith announced today that three student-athletes have signed letters-of-intent to play volleyball for the Rams next season.

Tommie David (Virginia Beach, VA/Landstown), Christine Jackson (Stafford, VA/North Stafford), and Lauren Summa (Bear, DE/Padua Academy) will join the Rams next season.

David, a setter, was a four-year starter in volleyball at Landstown High School. She has also played five years for the Beach Elite Virginia Beach Volleyball Academy club team.

“Tommie will be a great addition to our program,” said Smith. “She comes from a club program that establishes a high bar which Tommie has crossed every time. Her interaction with her hitters is one of her best assets and the biggest area of growth.”

Jackson, a middle all-around player, was a multiple-letterwinner in volleyball, basketball and soccer at North Stafford High School. She was a team captain for volleyball and basketball. Jackson helped lead her team to the 2011 district championship. She was named to the Washington Post All-Met Top 25 in blocks. Jackson recorded 290 assists, 144 blocks (59 solo), 138 digs, 110 kills and 28 aces last season.

“Christine is the most natural athlete we have recruited in the past three years,” said Smith. “Her ceiling is probably higher than Melani (rising senior on team). Christine’s biggest challenge will be the increased speed of the game while improving her skill set. Her best trait is her work ethic which will only fuel her desire to accomplish the task ahead.”

Summa, a libero, helped lead the Padua Academy volleyball team to the 2012 state championship. She gained First Team All-Conference and Second Team All-State as a senior. Summa recorded 434 digs and 22 aces in a 19-game schedule last year.

“We are excited that Lauren chose Shepherd,” said Smith. “She is a solid athlete with high level of club and high school experience. Lauren’s determination and work ethic helped her lead her team to a state championship this year.”

“We are very pleased that these three ladies decided to join our Ram family,” said Smith. “The next four years will be great ones for the 2013 class.”