Volleyball Signs Three to National Letter of Intent for 2006

5/10/06 -- Long Island University volleyball head coach Toby Rens has announced the signings of three student-athletes for the fall 2006 season. Junior College All-Americans Lindsey Patty (Edmond, Okla.), Shelby Heggie (Laramie, Wyo.) and freshman Svetlana Simic (Klek, Serbia & Montenegro) are the latest additions for the two-time (2004, 2005) Northeast Conference champions.

Patty, a 5-8 setter, comes from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. She was named to National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) All-American first team after helping guide the Lions to a Bi-State Conference title and their third Region-II championship crown. The only two-time All-American in UAFS history, Patty led the nation in assists per game (15.0 apg) and collected a season total of 1,312.

“Lindsey is well-trained and knows the game. She runs a very fast system and will give us a very different look on offense. I am extremely excited, adding her to our successful program,” Rens says.

Heggie arrives in Brooklyn from Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colo. For the Plainswomen, she recorded 333 kills and posted 129 blocks en route to being named to the NJCAA All-American second team. The 6-3 Wyoming native brings size and experience to the squad and has the ability to play any position at the net. Heggie was a two-time all-conference and all-state selection at Laramie High School.

Rens says of the incoming junior, “We are excited to get a student-athlete like Shelby from one of the best junior college programs in the Midwest. She is well-trained and brings a high level of athleticism to the court.”

Simic, a 5-10 outside hitter/libero, will bring a physical presence and high level of experience to the court. She has honed her skills for numerous club teams in her native Serbia.

Rens added “Clearly, I enjoy her ability and skill as a player but I’m equally excited about some of the different intangibles she brings to the game. Her personality, energy and enthusiasm for the sport will add a lot.”

An excited Rens states, “This class will be called upon to contribute heavily this fall and can have an immediate impact on our future success. Each of these young women are outstanding students and a great fit for LIU.”

The Blackbirds kick-off the 2006 season at the Manhattan College Tournament on Friday, August 25.