COLLEGE VOLLEYBALL: NEWARK VALLEY'S GRAVES TAKING HER GAME TO EAST COAST (2021-06-11)

BY TIM TAYLOR
Tioga County Sports Report
NEWARK VALLEY — Newark Valley's Emma Graves is heading east and taking her game to Massachusetts, making it official with the signing of a National Letter of Intent to attend Eastern Nazarene College here Friday.

The all-around atmosphere of the oceanside school is what attracted the volleyball standout who led the Cardinals to back-to-back IAC Large School championships.

"I chose ENC because of the community, the coach and the incredibly successful volleyball program," she said.

Graves' athletic ability and size also made her an impressive goalkeeper for the NV soccer team her sophomore year, but she was clearly destined to be putting balls over a net, niot keeping them from going into one.

"I feel I will give ENC an aggressive, competitive and motivated personality for their program," she said. "I'm a strong player and a strong communicator, and adding that to a strong team will create a stronger, and even more united team.

Graves is seeking more than a college volleyball career with her trek to the coast.

"I hope to get a strong, loving and positive experience through the church and the community," she said. "Academically, I hope to succeed and create a sturdy life for myself.

"In volleyball, I hope to have a phenomenal next four years, and give it all I've got — to continue to improve day by day.

She also knows where she wants her education to lead her.

"I will be studying early childhood education, wanting to create a fun and safe environment for my future students," she said." ——————

Coach's Comments
(Courtesy of NV Athletic Department)

Kelsey O'Donnell, Volleyball: "I have no doubt that Emma will make a great addition to the Eastern Nazarene volleyball program. She has a great passion for volleyball paired with natural athletic talent and a dedication to the sport that few players possess. She is a powerhouse in the front row, and I look forward to catching a game next year to see her dominate on the court once again."