Vanessa King continues to replay in her mind the day when MSU head coach Cathy George asked her to join the volleyball team.
"I was talking to her in her office and she goes, 'I want to offer you a full ride,'" said the Spring Lake High School senior. "I was really shocked. I mean, it's a Big Ten school."
Along with King, a 6-foot middle blocker, two other high school seniors are still pinching themselves about playing in the green and white uniform next year.
"I was surprised. I never really thought I could play on a Big Ten level," said outside hitter Katie Vander Meer, who attends East Kentwood High School.
So far, King, Vander Meer and another East Kentwood player, outside hitter Whitney Tremain, have signed letters of intent with MSU.
Tremain said when she found out, she and her mother were speechless.
"I was just stunned. Me and my mom kind of stood there in her office for a moment, trying to take it all in," Tremain said. "It's pretty exciting."
It shouldn't come as a total surprise, though — the three girls have made some pretty impressive accomplishments throughout their careers.
Tremain was named one of the top 100 players in her class by Prep Volleyball.
Vander Meer received co-Most Valuable Performer 2004-05 and garnered All-Conference and All-District accolades.
As 2005-06 team captain, King made First Team All-Conference.
The girls are also very familiar with each other's style of play. Tremain and Vander Meer play on the same varsity team together and have become close throughout the years.
"She's pretty much my best friend in the whole world," Tremain said.
King, who played with Tremain on a youth national team a few years ago, said she's excited about becoming a Spartan. She has already seen the MSU team in action during three home games and even attended a football game.
Each girl knows she can bring something different to the court. And that's why they believe George chose them.
"Cathy's looking more for people who are quick on their feet and I'm one of them," Tremain said.
King agrees.
"She likes my quick arm swing and the way I move, so hopefully I can bring that to the team," she said.
