Benson’s Transition To Volleyball Paid Off

Coming in as a freshman cross country runner from Hurley, Carly Benson never had any thoughts about playing college volleyball.

“I never had intentions of playing college volleyball,” Benson said. I had considered other sports, but never volleyball.”

That changed at the end of her running season as now senior setter Abby Haiar approached Benson and asked her to talk with Lancer volleyball coach Tracey Grotenhuis.

Benson made the switch in the fall semester of her sophomore year and began playing as the Lancers libero.

Benson entered a young team and helped them to improve throughout her two years on the team.

Benson considered her transition to the volleyball team like joining a new family.

“The girls on and off the court are like family to me and it is awesome to have that kind of support behind you,” Benson said. “I have really enjoyed the team aspect and love the girls I play with.”

Benson had a solid year on the court. She played 128 of 129 games and led the team with 546 digs. She directed the passing to help set up the Lancers offensive attack.

Her performance was good enough to make her an All-GPAC Honerable Mention libero.

Although Benson is only considered a sophomore in volleyball eligibility, she is a junior academically.Next year will be Benson’s last year with the Lancers as she graduates in May 2010.