Montreat College Head Volleyball Coach Christine Mooberry has announced the signing of
Hattie Lewis, who will join the Cavalier program for the 2010 season.  Lewis, the daughter of Ada and Tommy Lewis of Morganton, N.C., is finishing her senior year at Burke Middle College, a high school affiliated with Western Piedmont Community College.  

Mooberry anticipates an immediate and significant contribution from Lewis, who is 6'0" and plays along the front line.  "I see Hattie contributing as a middle blocker or on the right side.  Her height, quick arm-swing and blocking ability will be valuable, and she can help us run the offense."

In fact, Mooberry sees many virtues in Lewis that will strengthen a promising Cavaliers program.  "Hattie's personality makes her a perfect fit for this team.  She displays genuine humility, which will serve her well throughout her volleyball career because she doesn't think she's already arrived: she wants to grow and improve.  Plus, she's an excellent student coming from a challenging academic setting."

Lewis attracted attention from several programs but chose Montreat College for a variety of reasons, citing the "beautiful campus" and the friendly people: "When I visited Montreat, I knew it was where I was supposed to be: it's the perfect school for me.  I love to play volleyball because of the people I meet, and the women on the Montreat team are wonderful."

Lewis anticipates majoring in human services and looking at social work, case management, or counseling as a career choice, though she's excited about exploring many options when she arrives on campus.    

Mooberry is likewise excited about Lewis' arrival and the prospects for the team in 2010 and beyond.  The coach anticipates a very strong squad next year after her team set a school record for most victories in a season and finished with a 27-19 win-loss mark.