2004-05 Recruits

Graceland coach Stew McDole signed Shannon Kim to the 2003-04 women’s volleyball team.

Kim was a setter for the Education Laboratory School in Honolulu, Hawaii. At five-foot-three-inches tall, McDole plans on Kim to be a libero for Graceland. She was an Interscholastic League of Honolulu honorable mention all-star selection as both a junior and senior.

“Shannon comes to us with the strong recommendation of her high school and club coaches,” says McDole. “We expect her to make an immediate impact as a passer / digger. She will help us keep the string for fine players from the islands intact.”

Kim also plays libero for the Manoa Volleyball Club and played basketball for the junior bows of ELHS.

Academically, Kim holds a 4.0 GPA and was awarded the Superior Academic Achievement Award and the Gates Millennium Scholar Award. As a freshman she received the scholar-athlete award.

Shannon is the sister of Chang Yool and Kun Cha Kim and the sister of Tammy Ohno.

Lee’s Summit North High School senior Nicole Piedimonte signed a letter of intent to play volleyball for Coach Stew McDole at Graceland University beginning in the fall of 2004. Nici is a five-foot-four-inch setter and defensive specialist for the Broncos. She is a four-year academic letter winner and received a IB diploma. “Nici really loves to play this game,” says Coach McDole. “She is a college-capable platform player who will continue to improve. It will be fun to help her grow this year.”

Piedimonte is a member of National Honors Society, Spanish Honors Society, Bronco Smart, FBLA, SADD and youth group. She plans to study pre-med and Spanish at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa.

Nicole is the daughter of Jeff and Sherrie and the sister of Jordan.

Megan McGehee, daughter of Rick and Tami McGehee, of Marshalltown, Iowa, has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. Megan was a 2002 Marshalltown High graduate and will be a member of the 2004 graduating class at Marshalltown Community College.   Megan was a two sport athlete--volleyball and basketball--in high school. She was an all-conference selection as an outside hitter in volleyball while an MHS high school player, where she was team captain as a senior. Her school play coupled with AAU club play prepared her for college volleyball. Marshalltown offered her athletic aid and a place to advance her education and athletic careers.

The result is that the last two years she has been a key five-foot-eight-inch outside hitter for the Tigers and Head Coach Terri Craft. She is typically a 60-minute player who goes both back and front row. Her contribution has been equally split between aggressive attacking and consistent defense.

McGehee has invested herself in the education process at MCC where she is a psychology major with a minor in elementary education. She will receive her A.A. in child development at the end of her sophomore year in May.

"Megan has really good physical tools for this game,” says Stew McDole, Graceland’s women’s volleyball coach. “She is an excellent jumper. I believe she will be able to ‘fly’ with the best in our conference. Megan has a very fast arm and good upper body strength. Both attributes support the outside hitter role well. We will hope to help her continue her development. She definitely has the potential to get better and better. I am looking forward to seeing just how far she can go. We are pleased that she is joining our program.”

Graceland has long been regarded as a pioneer supporter of women's athletics. The volleyball program has been a central element in that emphasis. Yellowjacket volleyball teams have been conference champs 13 times in the last 17 years and have consistently appeared in the national Top 25 polls.

McGehee is considering a degree program in psychology as her educational goal. She will enter Graceland in the fall 2004 semester with the beginning of volleyball preseason in August.

Jodi Butler has signed a letter of intent to play basketball and volleyball for Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa, beginning in the fall of 2004. Butler, from Marshalltown, Iowa, was a second team all-region player in both basketball and volleyball for Marshalltown Community College this year. In high school, Butler was a second team all-conference basketball player and a first team all-conference volleyball player. Jodi, a six-foot-two-inch athlete, looks to play post for the basketball team and middle or right side hitter on the volleyball team.

“Jodi came highly recommended by Casey Cole, who has played in the Graceland women’s basketball program the past three seasons,” says Laura Pollard, Graceland’s women’s basketball coach. “Jodi’s knowledge of the game, height and junior college experience will greatly contribute to the basketball team.”

“Jodi brings size, experience and intensity to the Graceland court,” says Stew McDole, Graceland’s volleyball coach. “These are exciting tools that should help to drive out program to success. We are looking forward to Jodi establishing a presence with our volleyball team.”

Butler’s experience comes not only from playing but also in the form of coaching an AAU volleyball team and a county league softball team.

Butler is a high achiever in the classroom, too, proven by her membership in National Honors Society and her Outstanding Academic Achievement award at Marshalltown High School and being on the Dean’s List at Marshalltown CC.

Jodi, the daughter of Dan and Vicki Butler, and the sister to Jason and Jenna, has an AA degree from MCC and plans to major in elementary education while at Graceland.

Chelsey Remmenga, daughter of Kurt and Danise Remmenga, of Lamoni, Iowa has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University. Chelsey will graduate with the 2004 class at Lamoni High School where she has been a strong student and athlete. Remmenga has had a diverse career as a high school athlete. Her interests spanned every season. In the fall it was volleyball. Over the winter season she started as a guard or forward for the Demon basketball team where she has been a two year starter and team captain. In the spring her attention turned to track where she competed all four high school years and was a team captain both her junior and senior years. When summer comes softball takes center stage where again she is a two year starter and team captain.

On the volleyball court, Chelsey was a setter and sometimes outside hitter for Head Coach Laura Jeanes. She was a part of LHS Volleyball for three years. She became a starter as a junior and was a team captain her final two seasons. Remmenga has taken advantage of USA Volleyball camps at Graceland as a part of her effort to improve her skills. The result of her high school and outside preparation is the chance to maintain her volleyball as a collegiate athlete.

Remmenga is also an honor roll student who has invested herself in virtually every facet of school. She has been a member of chorus and other activities including Entrepreneur Leadership and Service Learning Projects. Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and succeeded at high levels. Her success as a scholar has resulted in academic as well as performance notice at Graceland.

“Chelsey really wants to play college volleyball,” notes Graceland Volleyball Coach Stew McDole. "Our town doesn’t always afford a young athlete the out-of-school opportunities that urban areas can provide. We do though offer year-round varsity play experience and the atmosphere within which to build intensity and a competitive drive. Chelsey is certainly a beneficiary of this system. She will learn much more about her chosen sport and her play will improve measurably. We are pleased to have her joining our program.”

Graceland has long been regarded as a pioneer supporter of women's athletics. The volleyball program has been a central element in that emphasis. Yellowjacket volleyball teams have been conference champs 13 times in the last 17 years and have consistently appeared in the national Top 25 polls.

Remmenga is planning a career in either secondary education or athletic training as her academic focus in college. She will enter Graceland in the fall 2004 semester with the beginning of volleyball preseason in August.

Amber Sacry, daughter of Dennis and Cara Sacry of Whitehall has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball and participate in track while attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. Sacry will graduate with the 2004 class at Whitehall High School in Whitehall, Mont., where she has been an active student and athlete. Amber was a five-foot-five-inch outside hitter for the Trojans where she was a key varsity starter this past season. She was a member of the varsity squad for three years making the team initially as a sophomore. She has brought high energy and intensity to the court for Coach Oliverson. Sacry is anticipating a career as a jumper in collegiate track as well. Her efforts will center in the long and triple jump events.

Basketball has also been a school athletic interest for Sacry. She has been a four year high school participant. Her junior and senior years have been spent on the varsity court. She is a starting forward for the 2004 team.

Sacry has been an active participant in other school activities as well. She was in Pep Club one year, was involved in Key Club for two years and played in the band for three years. Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and consistently succeeded. Her efforts have resulted in academic as well as athletic aid at Graceland.

Graceland volleyball coach Stew McDole expects Sacry to succeed in her college career. "Amber is hard to predict – in a good way,” says McDole. “She packs a lot of athleticism in what some might feel is a small frame for college volleyball. Ultimately, I think that is her strongest attribute. She will come with good athletic tools. I think the challenge will be to match her physical capabilities with great technique. That will be our job. She clearly enjoys the game and has fun playing. I feel certain that her best volleyball is ahead of her.”

Track Coach Kent Allshouse notes that he expects her to be a consistent contributor in her field events. “Both her events are areas where we need point scoring depth on our team,” says Allshouse. “We look forward to her arrival.”

Graceland has long been regarded as a pioneer supporter of women's athletics. The volleyball program has been a central element in that emphasis. Yellowjacket volleyball teams have been conference champs 13 times in the last 17 years and have consistently appeared in the national Top 25 polls.

Sacry is potentially focused at degree programs in education or sports medicine. She plans to finalize her educational goals as she gets further into her studies. She will enter Graceland in the fall 2004 semester with the beginning of volleyball preseason in August.

Jenny Stone, daughter of Chris and Lila Stone of Wichita, Kan., has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. Jenny will graduate with the 2004 class at East High School where she has was a six-foot-one-inch middle blocker for Head Coach Heather Holovach. "Jenny came to the game late, but she developed an immediate passion that has helped her to some early success,” says McDole. “She brings good size and intelligence to the court. These are tools that will serve her well in the college arena.”

Volleyball became an interest after Jenny and her family relocated in Wichita just before her junior year. She played junior club ball out of season, went to camps and landed a varsity starting position as a senior for the Aces. Stone ended the 2003 season as the second leading blocker in the conference and was selected All-League Honorable Mention for her efforts. She is continuing to play club ball in USA Volleyball tournaments throughout the Midwest and South.

“Jenny wants to learn; she is anxious to progress,” adds McDole. “She wants to catch up with players who have been at the game longer. I think that will happen. Our job will be to provide the environment where she can build on the growth she has made in Coach Holovach’s program and in club play.”

Stone’s school involvements are also impressive. Instrumental music has been high on her list of interests. She has played the alto saxophone in band, jazz band, orchestra and pit orchestra. Most recently she has been selected to play in the all-city band. Her interests and skills have matured to the point that she is receiving Graceland scholarship aid for her music. Other school activities include student government, German Club, S.A.D.D., and the Native American Club.

Jenny also plays soccer where she is a four-year letter winner. Her high school honors include selection as a University of Kansas Regent’s Scholar and recognition as a Top High school scholar by Wichita State University. The Wichita Business Journal featured her in the “Spotlight on Seniors” series. Her presence in the East High hallways will be missed. Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and succeeded at the highest level. She is presently on target to be the valedictorian for her class of 436.

“I am confident that she will work hard and progress quickly,” says McDole. “I feel certain that her best volleyball is ahead of her. We are delighted to have Jenny joining our program.”

Maranda Miller, daughter of Kevin and MaryAnn Miller of Holden, Mo., has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball at Graceland University. Maranda is a member of the 2004 graduating class at Holden High School where she has excelled as a student and athlete. Maranda was a six-foot-one-inch middle blocker for the Eagles. She logged four years on the varsity and became a key starter her junior and senior years. Those teams made Eagle volleyball history as Head Coach Julie Carver guided them to back to back state qualifications. The 2002 season ended with a Missouri 2A third place finish. The year 2003 brought the State Championship back to Holden. Maranda is Holden’s all-time blocking leader having recorded 380 career blocks. Her 2003 numbers ran 2.3 blocks per game placing her second in the state.

“Maranda has a hunger and passion for volleyball,” says Coach Stew McDole. “She has a feeling that there is much more to come. I think she is exactly right. Most of her volleyball life she has struggled with nagging physical dilemmas which kept her from a real shot at her potential. This fall season when for the first time she was physically 100 percent was a real eye opener for her and opponents.”

Miller was selected to the All-District 2nd Team as a junior, but was unprepared for the accolades that came her way as a senior. In 2003 she was honored by a string of first team selections. She was chosen All-Conference, All-District, All-Region and finally First Team All-State. Miller plays volleyball out of season as well. She has played for junior club teams in USA Volleyball tournaments across Middle America and this year on a national scale. Her presence in the high school halls and on the Eagle court will be missed.

“Coach Carver tells me that simply, we are getting a good one,” says McDole. “We both know that Maranda has a great college future. Her work ethic is strong. Her sense of team and her commitment to excellence is well developed from her Holden experiences. She will get continually better with each practice and each contest. I really believe that Maranda and Graceland are a good match. We are pleased that she is joining our program.”

Miller has invested herself across a spectrum of school activities. She has been the Vice President of her class during each of her four high school years. This year she is also a student council officer. She is active in Future Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) where again she is the vice president. Maranda is also a member of the National Honors Society signaling her attention to school. Academically she has taken a four- year slate of college preparatory courses and consistently succeeded at high levels. Her efforts have resulted in academic as well as athletic aid at Graceland.

Jamie Manuel, daughter of Evan and Mary Jo Manuel of Blue Springs, Mo., has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. Jamie will graduate with the 2004 class at Blue Springs High School where she was a five-foot-four-inch defensive specialist for Head Coach Charlie Bock. "Jamie comes from a volleyball environment,” says Graceland women’s volleyball coach Stew McDole. “She has had support on many fronts in her quest to master this game. Blue Springs High School and Coach Bock’s program there has been a great opportunity for her.”

Volleyball has been a long time sport interest for Jamie both in school and out. Her efforts landed her a spot and a varsity letter with the Wildcats both her junior and senior years. She was a starter each year, and her senior season resulted in an All-Conference Honorable Mention selection.

Manuel has pursued her volleyball out of season as well. She has played junior ball in USA Volleyball tournaments around the Midwest more than seven years. Jamie now coaches younger athletes for the Invasion Volleyball Club, a local Blue Springs junior program.

“All the practice and now coaching hours have paid off in a knowledge and comfort level on the court that exceeds most players her age,” adds McDole. “She has worked hard to develop her craft in this game; I think she and we will be pleased with the results. Jamie has a passion for the game that will continue to fuel her effort. Her best volleyball is ahead of her. We are delighted to have her joining our program.”

Manuel’s school involvements are considerable. Vocal music has been a driving interest, as she has been a lettering member of the school choir since 2001. Her junior year found her in Acappella Choir and as a senior she performs with the Chamber Choir. Throughout her school career Manuel has consistently scored well at district and state music contests. Ultimately she has matured her skills to the point that she is receiving Graceland scholarship aid for her singing.

Manuel has been on the academic honor roll her entire high school career. She is a member of National Honors Society and is listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students. Her involvements have included participation in the school Peer Mediation program, in Future Teachers of America and she is presently a Hi-Step Room Leader. Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and succeeded at the highest level. She was chosen Academic All-State in volleyball as a junior.

Manuel is considering possible studies in forensics, physical therapy or athletic training as her academic focus at college.

Michelle Allen, daughter of Mark and Nancy Allen of Pleasant Hill, Mo., has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University. "Michelle really loves this game,” says Graceland women’s volleyball coach Stew McDole. “She has worked especially hard to develop her skills.” Michelle was a five-foot-four-inch setter for the Chicks during the last two varsity seasons. Volleyball has been a long time sport interest for Michelle. Her efforts landed her a starting varsity spot both her junior and senior years, and she helped the team to Conference and District Championships in 2002. Along the way she garnered second team All-Conference and first team All-Region honors.

Her senior season capped a fine career as Head Coach George Creason guided the Chicks to conference and District Championships again and to a second place finish in the 3A Missouri State Tournament. Michelle was tabbed first team All-Conference, All-District and All-State.

“Her success in school and club environments has evolved an expectation of quality and a winning attitude,” adds McDole. “Along the way she has become comfortable in her role as setter/leader. Her experience should serve her well. Michelle brings good athletic tools and she is a hard worker. I feel certain that her best volleyball is ahead of her. We are delighted to have her joining our program.”

Allen has pursued her volleyball outside the school court as well. She has played for junior club teams in USA Volleyball tournaments across middle America and on a People to People USA team in both Italy and France. The Chicks will surely miss her.

Allen’s school involvements are just as impressive. She has been in FCCLA, DECA, SADD and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She has been a consistent honor roll performer. The MSHSAA selected her for their Outstanding Scholastic Achievement Award and she is a member of the National Honors Society. Allen is also in Student Council and Hi-Step, was a Senior Homecoming attendant and is president of Hilltop Harmony.

Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and consistently succeeded at the highest levels. Her efforts have resulted in academic as well as athletic aid at Graceland.

Stephanie Hamann, daughter of John and Terri Hamann of St. Joseph, Mo., has recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball while attending Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. Stephanie will graduate with the 2004 class at Central High School where she has been a quality student and athlete. Stephanie was a five-foot-seven-inch setter for Coach Monica Flask during the last two varsity seasons at Central. Volleyball has been a six-year school sport interest for Stephanie. Her efforts landed her a varsity spot with the Indians both her junior and senior years. She was a starter each year. Her senior season capped a fine career as she was selected for honorable mention notice in the Suburban Mid 8 Conference and first team All-City in St. Joseph.

Hamann has pursued her volleyball outside the high school court as well. She has played for junior club teams in USA Volleyball tournaments across middle America as far away as Indianapolis, Ind. and Austin, Texas.

Hamann’s school involvements are just as impressive. She has been in Spanish Club as a junior and senior and worked on the yearbook staff both those years. Her junior year she was in Forum Club and as a senior has been active in S.A.D.D. and in DECA, an association for marketing students. Hamann has been listed in Who’s Who Among American High School Students and Athletes. Academically she has taken a four-year slate of college preparatory courses and consistently succeeded. Her efforts have resulted in academic as well as athletic aid at Graceland.

Graceland volleyball coach Stew McDole expects Hamann to succeed in her college career. "Stephanie has worked hard to develop her craft in this game,” says McDole. “She has been driven by a love for volleyball and competition. The result is that she has strong technical skills and great court presence. Her role as a setter is to lead the team. She has succeeded in high school and club, and I think she is ready to succeed at the next level as well. She will come with good athletic tools and a strong work ethic. I feel certain that her best volleyball is ahead of her. We are delighted to have her joining our program.”

Graceland has long been regarded as a pioneer supporter of women's athletics. The volleyball program has been a central element in that emphasis. Yellowjacket volleyball teams have been conference champs 13 times in the last 17 years and have consistently appeared in the national Top 25 polls.

Hamann is focused at a degree program in international business with language proficiency in German and Spanish as her educational goals. She will enter Graceland in the fall 2004 semester with the beginning of volleyball preseason in August.