Jan. 25, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ---- Samford University head volleyball coach Michelle Durban announced Wednesday that Sarah Gardner has enrolled at Samford for the spring 2006 semester and intends to join the volleyball team.

Gardner, who was recruited by the Bulldogs as a high school senior, transferred to Samford after spending one semester at Butler University.

"Sarah is a great addition to this program," Durban said of the Indianapolis native. "She comes from a great HS and club program (Circle City Volleyball Club). Sarah will add ball control and a competitive fire to our team."

The 5'8" freshman attended Bishop Chatard High School where she helped lead her team to a 2004 state championship. She was named first-team All-State, first-team All-City and All-North by the Indianapolis Star in 2004. Gardner was also named to the Indiana All-Star team in 2004 and received second-team All-City honors in 2003.

Gardner will participate in spring workouts and will join the 2006 freshmen class this fall.