Kirby says she will play at Sacramento State

Eryn Kirby, one of the big reasons the Yuba City High volleyball team has become a perennial contender in recent years, has made a verbal commitment to play at Sacramento State in 2008.

The Hornets have offered her a full scholarship.

“They have a really good program and they do really well in their league,” Kirby said about why she chose the Hornets over other programs she was considering. “I really liked the campus, and I really liked the coaches and players I got to meet. And it is close to home.”

Kirby recently made an unofficial recruitment trip to the Sacramento campus.

She made her verbal commitment on Friday.

“I will get to compete for a spot (as a freshman), and I really like that,” Kirby said.

Sacramento State is part of the Division I Big Sky Conference.

In addition to being one of the Honkers’ stars during the fall season, Kirby also is part of the North Valley Juniors summer volleyball program that will be playing in the Junior Olympics in Minnesota in July.

Kirby is a 6-foot outside hitter, but offers other skills as well.

“Eryn is a great all-around player. She possesses power and size and has great dedication to the game,” said Thea Post, who coaches Kirby as part of the North Valley team.

Kirby credits Post and her high school coach, Eric Smith, for much of her success.

“I have had great coaches in this community who have helped me get to where I am, and I have played with great players who have helped me get where I am,” said Kirby, who started playing the sport in seventh grade.

Kirby said her parents and coaches gave her a lot of support when making the decision, but the final choice was hers.

She said Stanislaus State also was at the top of her list, but she also considered some other schools.

Kirby said she wants to enjoy her final year at Yuba City and do all the things seniors do.

Then the focus will be on college.

“I love volleyball. It’s the most fun, I think. And it’s a team sport, and the other players are my friends.”