Urbana University head women’s volleyball coach Tim Balice recently announced the signing of Deandra Atwood (Burlington, Ky./Conner Highj School). Atwood will join the Blue Knights at the start of the 2017-18 academic year.

A four-year starter at Conner High School and a member of the Northern Kentucky Junior Volleyball Club, Atwood adds a versatile skillset to the UU women’s volleyball program.

“Deandra is a competitor that finds ways to win,” Balice said. “She might have played every position on the court at one point in her high school and club career. Although she most recently has been a setter, I really see her long-term impact being in the areas of defense and serving. We are beyond excited to add someone of her caliber to our already impressive 2017 recruiting class.”

Atwood collected numerous awards following her senior season, including Cincinnati Enquirer First Team Volleyball All-Star, Boone County Recorder Fall Sports – First Team, Team MVP (all four years) and the all-district team (sophomore and senior).

Atwood also earned the prestigious Conner Cougar Woman of the Year honor during her junior season.

She plans to major in business at UU. Atwood will join four other volleyball newcomers in the fall.

The Blue Knight women’s volleyball program expects to return 12 players from last year’s 20-14 squad, including three-time All-MEC performer Katlynn Dunlap.