Kearney, Neb. - Nebraska-Kearney volleyball coach Rick Squiers announced today the names of three high school seniors who will suit up for the Lopers next year.

They are middles Katie Sokolowski (Kearney Catholic) and Ellie Pesavento (Omaha Marian) and outside hitter Ashley Leitner (Lincoln Southwest).

UNK had four seniors on this year's 33-3 squad; middle Nikki Scott, right side Shannon Clausen, outside Erica Burson and defensive specialist Kelli Wemhoff.  Squeirs said UNK will add more recruits to the roster in the coming weeks & months.

"We are very fortunate to have such a quality group joining us for 2010. In addition to being outstanding volleyball players, Katie, Ellie, and Ashley are strong students with the work ethic it takes to succeed in college athletics."

Standing 6-2, Sokolowski helped the Stars go 30-3 and place 3rd in Class C-1 this year. A 1st-team all-state pick as a junior, she recorded 407 kills, 269 digs, 60 blocks and 63 aces this fall.

Sokolowski comes from an athletic family as her parents, David and Lisa, were both college athletes.

“Katie brings a lot of attributes to Loper volleyball. Not only does she have the potential to make an impact at the net but her ball control skills, defense and serving make her a possible six rotation player,” said Squiers. “It's very exciting to have such a talented prospect from Kearney joining us next fall.”

Pesavento (6-0) helped the Crusaders go 42-1 and win the Class A state title this year. It was Marian's first volleyball title in a decade.

She is a three-time all-state selection who earned 2nd-team all-metro honors in 2008.

“Ellie's skills are well suited for our offense. She is a dynamic slide hitter and works very hard to get touches at the on the block,” said Squiers. “Her experience at the highest level of high school volleyball in the state has prepared her well for the college game.”

Leitner (6-0) will be the next Skyhawk on the Loper roster, following current freshman DS Kaleigh Anderson.

This fall, she helped Southwest go 27-8 and reach the Class A state tournament. For the year, she was at 200 kills, 170 digs and 31 blocks.

Leitner was also part of the Skyhawks state championship track team this past spring.

“Ashley won us over at summer camps with her high energy and competitive spirit. She is a rangy athlete with a fast arm who can terminate on the outside,” said Squiers. “She plays with great passion and will fit well with the philosophy of Loper volleyball.”

In 2009, UNK won a sixth straight RMAC regular season title and made the NCAA Tournament for an 11th straight season.