Wes-Del’s Alysa Sutton committed to Eastern Michigan this week.
Alysa Sutton had several options to continue her volleyball career at the next level.
Ultimately, though, the Wes-Del star senior chose a program with strong local ties — and cited that as one of her primary reasons behind the decision.
In committing to Eastern Michigan on Friday, Sutton will play for head coach Kimi Olson, a New Castle graduate, and assistant coach Darcy Dorton, a Delta graduate. Each of the coaches played for Mike Lingenfelter, who runs the Munciana club volleyball program Sutton plays for.
That connection led Sutton to believe she’ll be in an environment that allows her to flourish.
“They just get how I’ve been taught and how I play,” Sutton said. “I feel I can grow as a player there.”
The 5-foot-10 outside hitter and first-team All-State selection led Wes-Del to its second state title last season, piling up a team-high 455 kills and adding 324 digs.
Wes-Del coach Biff Wilson said it’s Sutton’s all-around ability that makes her a Division I player.
“She’s just a really good player and has every skill there is when it comes to volleyball,” Wilson said. “I believe they’re interested in her in the back row, but I don’t know that they’d rule out opportunities for her to hit. She could do either. And if they give her enough time, she could probably set for them.
“I think (their coaching staff) will really enjoy her level of intensity and competitiveness.”
Eastern Michigan offered Sutton in June while she was playing at the AAU National Championships in Orlando, Florida. Sutton visited later in the summer and decided that the Eagles, who went 18-13 overall and 9-7 in the Mid-American Conference last season, were a better fit than George Mason and Eastern Kentucky.
Plus, she’ll get a trip home to Muncie every year to play in front of those who molded her when Eastern Michigan takes on Ball State.
Now all that’s left for Sutton to do is enjoy her senior season and focus on leading Wes-Del to another deep postseason run.
“I thought I’d be more comfortable and prepared if I had everything planned out,” Sutton said. “I’m definitely relieved. I’m really excited to start this next chapter of my life and see where this takes me.”
Contact sports features writer Ryan O’Gara at (765) 213-5829. Follow him on Twitter @RyanOGaraTSP.