Herron announces two signings
Nov. 30, 2006

The Lady Blues added two high school players for the 2007 season during the November signing period, announced Washburn head coach Chris Herron. Caitlin Conley, a Topeka native from Shawnee Heights High School and Ali Ward, a Roeland Park, Kan., native from Shawnee Mission North signed national letters of intent to play volleyball at Washburn next fall.

Conley, a hitter, was named first team all-city and all-Centennial League the last two years. She also played soccer her freshman year and was a member of the National Honor Society.

“She’s very heavy-armed and hits the ball a ton with great control,” said Herron. “She brings great energy and can make a big impact right away.”

Ward also played as a hitter in high school and earned all-Sun League honors the last two years with first-team honors this year. She was a Kansas All-Star for the Missouri-Kansas game. Her senior year she averaged 3.67 kills per game, 1.5 blocks and 4.26 digs.

“Ali’s the kind of player that will get into college and build some strength. Her best playing days are ahead of her,” said Herron.

Washburn lost just two players to graduation after this year’s squad went 27-9, won the MIAA West Division and advanced to its fourth NCAA tournament in five years.


Ali Ward • 6-0 • Hitter • Roeland Park, Kan. • Shawnee Mission North HS

Background
Will graduate from Shawnee Mission North High School after playing volleyball for the Indians…named to the first team all-Sun League team her junior and senior year…named a Kansas All-Star for the Missouri-Kansas game…averaged 3.67 kills per game, 1.5 blocks and 4.26 digs per game her senior year…also was a post player in basketball…named to the honor roll all four years.

Personal
Parents are Sharol and Bart Ward…born on January 30, 1989…plans to major in psychology at Washburn.

Caitlin Conley • 5-10 • Hitter • Topeka, Kan. • Shawnee Heights HS

Background
Named to the all-city and all-Centennial League first teams her junior and senior seasons…earned all-tournament honors her senior year at the state tournament…played six years in USA Volleyball nationals…played soccer her freshman year…a member of the National Honor Society.

Personal
Daughter of Becky and Jim Conley…born on October 5, 1988…is undecided on college major.