Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
DORA — Randi Crandall wanted a chance to play college volleyball since her junior year at Dora, but it took a trip to Portales to realize it was something to pursue.
“Our team went and watched an ENMU volleyball game,” Crandall said. “I saw some of their players were doing the same things I was doing. I realized I could probably play college volleyball.”
She’s made the first step toward that goal, signing a letter of intent with Lamar Community College in Colorado.
Crandall, a 5-11 middle hitter, was a North-South All-Star and All-State selection. She said other schools had sent communications her way but Lamar was by far the best option. She signed on during her campus visit, and was celebrated Thursday in a ceremony at the school.
The Lopes should certainly give her a chance at playing time. In the team’s first season under coach Meagan Coleman, the team went 3-24. Coleman was a juco transfer, playing at Tyler Junior College before finishing up at Prairie View A&M.
“I like that the coach’s biggest focus is on her athletes’ next step,” said Crandall, who admitted finding four-year college opportunities is difficult for small-school athletes. “That’s what I like the most.”
As far as getting to a four-year college herself two years down the road, Crandall said she’ll need to work on every facet of her game.
“I think I just need to continue working hard and persevering,” Crandall said, “and work on my skills.”