Duo signs with Missouri schools

White

White

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

GRAVETTE - Missouri Southern had Monica White's interest from the outset, and the Gravette volleyball standout made an verbal commitment to the Joplin school.

There was still part of her that wanted to explore other options, which she did. Missouri Southern, however, still stood out, and White closed out the recruiting process April 17 when she signed her national letter of intent with the Lady Lions.

"It's incredible to do this, but it's also a relief," White said.

"It's nice to know where I'm going, and I'm looking forward to going up there and getting ready for college."

White, a 6-foot-1 middle blocker and outside hitter, recorded 210 kills and 76 total blocks last fall as she helped Gravette win the Class 4A Northwest regular season title. She earned all-state honors and was named to play in the All-State game in June.

"I went to Missouri Southern for a camp, and that's how I got interested in there," White said. "I still wasn't sure where I wanted to go, but Missouri Southern was still one of my top options. I just waited about signing until I knew for sure."

Chase Brody Signs

White wasn't the only Gravette athlete to finalize college plans during last Wednesday's ceremony. Quarterback Chase Brody did likewise when he signed a national letter of intent to play football at William Jewell College in Libery, Mo.

Brody (5-8, 145 pounds) said he wasn't looking at playing football in college until William Jewell entered the picture. He will become the second Gravette player on the Cardinals roster, joining close friend Darrick Strzelecki, who was a member of the team last year.

Brody will also be making a position switch as he moves from quarterback to receiver, a position he didn't play in high school.

"It's going to be different, but I can do it," Brody said. "I was considered more of a runner, so it should be an easier transition.

"I heard a lot of good things about the program there, and it was real nice when I visited. I love the program there and everything about it."

Sports, Pages 9 on 04/24/2013