A Union City High School volleyball player will continue her education and playing days at Bethel University in McKenzie.
School Communications Director Mike Hutchens said Brianna McBride, who was a key contributor to Union City’s march to the Class 1A State Tournament last fall, has accepted a scholarship to continue her playing career with the Lady Wildcats.
Surrounded by coaches, teammates, and family on Monday, the Tornado senior celebrated becoming just the third Union City volleyball player ever to earn a scholarship at the next level.
During the signing ceremony, McBride called the college opportunity “a dream come true”.
“Playing college volleyball is all I’ve talked about since my sophomore year. I started playing club ball at the middle school level with several teams, and I’ve learned to love it more and more every year. I didn’t want to get down the road as an adult and regret not continuing to play if I had the opportunity. I’m happy that won’t be the case.”
McBride led the Lady Tornadoes in service aces with 80, was second in digs with 175 and kills with 117.
She was ranked third on the team in saves with 104 during her senior campaign, when Union City qualified for the state tournament for just the third time in program history.
Union City coach Jessica Graham, who helped McBride catch the Lady Wildcat coaching staff’s eye, was thrilled with the opportunity for her to continue her career.
“I’m so excited for this next step for Bri,” Graham said Monday. “I know it’s something she has expressed wanting and has worked so hard for. I’m so proud of her and can’t wait to see what she does next at this level. Bethel is a great school. I believe Bri will be a great addition to the volleyball program.”
McBride joins Allysia Davis, who signed with Jackson State, as college signees for last year’s Lady Tornado team that posted 18 wins.
(photos: Mike Hutchens – School Communications Director)
