April 21, 2005

EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State volleyball head coach Cathy George announced that Erin Rice has signed a grant-in-aid form with the Spartans and will join the team for the 2005 season. Rice graduated in three years from Thornwood High School outside of Chicago, and is a very physical athlete who can make an impact in the Big Ten in the upcoming years.

"Erin is an exceptional athlete who is explosive, quick and athletic," said George. "She continues to learn the game and is a major presence at the net. She has room to develop and as she does so it will add a lot of depth to this Michigan State team."

A 6-2 middle hitter from Burnham, Ill., Rice is currently playing for the Sports Performance Volleyball Club of West Chicago where she is a member of the Elite Team. According to George, the experience she gains with the squad will enable her to contribute to the Spartan team in many ways.