EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE Volleyball has announced three signees for the 2024 season, welcoming Claire Jones (Overland Park, Kan.), Taya Nordman (DeWitt, Mich.), and Sophie Robinson (Chippewa Falls, Wis.). Coach Kendall Paulus.
“Our favorite quality about this group is their competitiveness,” Paulus said. “They want to win. They will push themselves and do whatever it takes to bring success to the team. Their selflessness and team-first mentality will make them great teammates and add value to our culture immediately. We can’t wait to see what they accomplish during their careers.”
Jones, a 5-8 defenseman/libero, joins the Cougars from Blue Valley High School where she served as a captain for the Tigers for three years. In 2021, she won an open national championship with Puhaku Volleyball Club before finishing second in the state competition with Blue Valley. As a senior, she earned a passing grade of 2.3.
“Claire brings so many things to our team,” Paulus said. “She has a strong foundation in her passing and defensive abilities. She is someone who values her relationships with teammates and staff. Those around her are encouraged by her consistency, love of the sport and attitude.”
Nordmann, a 6-2 middle blocker, comes to Edwardsville from DeWitt High School where she earned all-district and all-conference honors. As a senior with the Panthers, she averaged 3.2 kills and 1.0 blocks per set, ranking in the top 10 in the state in total blocks. Nordman concluded her first season with 371 kills.
“Taya values her relationships with her teammates and is always striving to learn,” Paulus said. “She is an amazing blocker with the mentality to stop opposing attackers. We are thrilled to have Taya on our side of the net. Taya makes you laugh and also pushes those around her to succeed.”
Robinson, a 5-11 outside hitter, comes to SIUE from Chippewa Falls High School where she helped lead the Cardinals to a 33-10 record as a senior. With Chippewa Falls, she was a three-time first-team all-conference selection, conference player of the year, and state player of the year. She recorded 364 kills, 49 aces, 31 blocks, 330 digs and 336 assists as a senior.
“Sophie loves volleyball,” Paulus said. “Her IQ on the field and play will add tremendous value to our team. She is an energetic player who finds ways to contribute to her team. Her vision on the field and passing depth allows her to find ways to score.”
Jones, Nordman and Robinson represent the first three additions to Paulus’ 2024 roster.
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