The Grace Christian University volleyball program is excited to welcome incoming freshman Ashlee Anderson to the Tiger family for the upcoming season.

Anderson, a 5-foot-10 standout from Lakeview, Michigan, joins the Tigers after building an impressive athletic and academic résumé at Lakeview High School. A multi-year team captain, Anderson was recognized as her team's Most Valuable Player during her junior season before earning Defensive MVP honors as a senior. She also received All-Conference Honorable Mention recognition twice during her high school career.

Beyond her accomplishments on the volleyball court, Anderson excelled in the classroom, finishing fifth in her graduating class.

Aside from her high school career under Lakeview High School head coach Kim Bunker, Anderson was a member of the Inside Out travel program, and most recently played for Muskegon Community College under Head Coach Sam Fehler.

Anderson was drawn to Grace by the relationships she developed with the coaching staff and her future teammates, as well as the culture and vision established within the program.

"Athletically, I love the coaches as well as my teammates that I have met so far," Anderson said. "I like the team culture that is established and the vision and goals of the team. The bond that everyone seems to have is incredible, and I would love to be a part of that. I've also heard a lot of good things about the level of the volleyball team and their skills."

Grace's close-knit campus environment and Christ-centered educational experience also played an important role in her decision.

"Academically, I really like the atmosphere and smaller campus," Anderson said. "Of course, I love the incorporation of my beliefs into schooling because I have never had the opportunity to experience that previously."

Head Coach Kerri Shultz believes Anderson's passion for volleyball, willingness to grow, and team-first mindset will allow her to make a positive impact on the program.

"I'm thrilled to have Ashlee's heart and skill being added to the family for this upcoming season," Shultz said. "Her love for volleyball and desire to learn and contribute stood out to me, and I know they will help her succeed with transferring. She already feels like a part of the family!"

Anderson plans to pursue a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing while continuing her volleyball career at Grace.

Welcome to Grace Christian University and the Tiger family, Ashlee! #RoarTigers