Ashburn, Va. – Rock Ridge High School senior Sydney Hicks has made a commitment to continue her volleyball career at Coppin State University starting in the 2018-2019 school year.
“I chose to commit to Coppin State because it had everything I was looking for in a school,” the 5-foot-10 Hicks said. “I also think it’s a beautiful campus with pretty facilities, and when I was on my tour, I could really picture myself studying and playing here.”
[adrotate banner=”14″]The Division I Eagles are coached by Timothy Walsh — who entered his first season in 2017 as the head coach of the Coppin State volleyball program. The first-year head coach will have his work cut out for him as the Eagles went 2-24 with a 2-10 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference record during the 2016 season.
Hicks mentioned that she believes she can make an impact as early as her freshman season.
“I think that I have a good work ethic and I’ll bring good energy to the team,” said Hicks, who will play outside hitter for the Eagles. “In addition to volleyball, I ran track and wrestled which has really improved my strength and quickness, and I will bring my athleticism to Coppin.”
After starting volleyball in the fifth grade, Hicks says her parents and coaches have been her greatest enthusiasts.
“My parents have always supported me to be a student athlete and encouraged me in both my academics and athletics,” Hicks said. “Coach O’Brien and Coach Reichel, as well as my club coaches, have supported me in becoming a better player.”
Before heading off to Baltimore, Hicks will wrap up her senior season with Rock Ridge. Hicks — a three-year varsity starter and first team All-Conference honoree last year — says she is always working to be better.
“I’m motivated by knowing volleyball is something that I can keep improving, hitting harder and jumping higher,” Hicks said. “It’s been a great experience being a part of and making traditions in a new program.”
