Kari Sarysz right at home with Lady Devils
Sunday, August 24, 2008 9:26 PM PDT
By Rick McCorkle
Printable version
E-mail this articlePlaying recreational volleyball at the University of Washington wasn’t a challenge for Kari Sarysz.
The competitive fire still burned inside of her since her days as an all-league player at R.A. Long High School. She was frustrated that the intramural recreation league wasn’t that competitive. She considered turning out for the crew team, but decided to instead focus on academics.
Her desire to once again feel the burn and to move closer to home prompted Sarysz to sign on to play volleyball at Lower Columbia College, where she will pursue a degree in nursing.
“A lot of kids want to get out and get away from home after they graduate, but this isn’t such a bad place to be,” said Sarysz, who graduated from R.A. Long in 2006. “I got out of here for awhile and decided I wanted to come back.”
LCC coach Marcy Gilchrist is pleased to have Sarysz, a Cowlitz Volleyball Club veteran, back in the fold.
“She’s a 5-foot-5 outside hitter who plays like she’s 5-10, because she really gets up in the air and sees the court well,” Gilchrist said. “She’s a complete server to any area of the court, and has an amazing short serve that is tough on the opposing defense. She also isn’t intimidated by the opposition — and that’s nice to have on defense.”
Gilchrist also enjoys Sarysz’s attitude.
“Kari always has a smile on her face, comes to play with a positive attitude and has an infectious laugh,” she said.
Sarysz is excited about her role on the team.
“I’ll probably split time between playing on the outside and as a defensive specialist,” she said. “Everyone likes to get a good kill, but I also enjoy playing defense because that’s what makes it all happen.”
Sarysz believes her experience playing club volleyball and her willingness to work hard will make the Lady Devils a title contender in the NWAACC Western Division this fall.
“I’m not afraid of hard work and I’m determined to be the best player I can be,” she said. “We’re starting to jell as a team and everyone is excited about the season, because each of us brings something different.”
LCC opens the season at 4 p.m. Friday against Southwestern Oregon at Myklebust Gym.
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