TUSCALOOSA, Ala. The University of Alabama Volleyball team’s incoming freshman group has been named the 27th best recruiting class in the nation according to PrepVolleyball.com.

“This is an exciting day for Alabama volleyball,” head coach Judy Green said. “This is the first time that we have cracked the top 30 in the country according to PreVolleyball.com. I think it shows the efforts by our coaching staff to recruit better volleyball players every year.”

Alabama was one of four Southeastern Conference schools to make PrepVolleyball.com’s list.

According to PrepVolleyball.com, “The Tide added depth, versatility and athleticism to a team that graduated its setter and top two attackers, meaning there should be plenty of opportunity for this class to get on the court early in Tuscaloosa.”

The 2008 freshman class consists of: Ashley Frazier, 6-1, outside hitter, Central Catholic (Toledo, OH); Christina Hobbs, 6-0, middle blocker, Atascocita (Houston, TX); Leigh Moyer, 6-2, middle blocker, McIntosh (Peachtree City, GA); Stephanie Riley, 5-7, setter, Assumption (Louisville Ky); and Lauren Witzinger, 5-11, defensive specialist/outside hitter, Huntsville (Huntsville, AL).

“I think with this recruiting class we met all of our needs,” Green said. “We met it from a personal standpoint because they are all quality young people who have great character. They all know what it takes to work hard and to earn what you get in life. I also think they bring a talent level into our program that we probably haven’t seen.”

The Tide opens the 2008 season by hosting the Crimson Tide Invitational on Aug. 8.

Courtesy: Alabama Media Relations