Wednesday, April 19, 2000

Johnson City, Tenn. -- East Tennessee State University head volleyball coach Kim Byrd today announced that Gretchen Rupert (Staunton, Virginia) has signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Buccaneer program.

Rupert, a two-time All-State honoree, earned four varsity letters for head coach Molly Byars at Robert E. Lee High School. She served as the team captain during her junior and senior seasons and earned All-Region honors three times.

A 6'0" outside hitter, Rupert earned All-District honors all four years of High School and led her team to the 1999 Virginia State AA Championship. She also earned varsity letters in basketball, tennis, track and skiing. A fine all-around student-athlete, Rupert carries a 3.984 grade point average and is ranked 10th in her class.

"Rupert will provide depth at the outside hitting position," Byrd said. "Not only is she a great player, but Gretchen is a well-rounded person."

Rupert joins Lissa Allen (Palm Bay, Fla.), Jennifer Asman (Boca Raton, Fla.), Jessica Miller (Knoxville, Tenn.) and Katie Steidle (Waynesboro, Va.) in the 2000 Buccaneer recruiting class.