Nov. 27, 2007

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - The University of North Carolina volleyball program has announced the signing of two student-athletes to National Letters of Intent to play for the Tar Heels starting in the 2008 season. Head coach Joe Sagula announced that Erica Behm from Downers Grove, Ill. and Shelbey Bleke from Gainesville, Fla. will make up the class of 2012 for the Tar Heels.

"We are very excited about our 2008 class of Tar Heel Volleyball players. We feel that both Erica and Shelbey can make an impact with our 2008 team and will compliment the already talented group of returning Tar Heels. They are both experienced players who are well trained and skilled in their positions who come from very competitive programs," head coach Joe Sagula said.

Behm is a 5-11 setter from Downers Grove North a suburb of Chicago. The four-year varsity setter owns the third most assists in Illinois High School history with 3,028, including the top mark since rally scoring. Behm was named to the Downers Grove Reporter all-area team four times and was named to the Sun Times and Chicago Tribune all-state teams as both a junior and senior. She plays club volleyball for the Sports Performance Volleyball club.

"Erica is an intelligent setter with great touch and feel for the game. Her training and development with the Sports Performance Volleyball Club from Chicago will enable her to play at the highest level. She will also be a great leader for our team," commented Sagula.

Bleke is a 6-3 middle from Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Fla. She is a Gatorade Player of the Year Finalist after averaging two blocks per game as a senior to go along with a .545 career hitting percentage. Bleke hit .650 in the state tournament as she helped lead Buchholz to the Florida 6A state championship as a senior. She currently plays her club volleyball for the Gainesville Juniors.

"Shelbey plays big! and being 6'3" and very athletic she can become a force both offensively and defensively with her blocking. Her training with the Gainesville Juniors along with some international competition have allowed for her rapid development where she has become a dominant middle," Sagula added.

"I know they are eager and will be well prepared to contribute at this level and play a big role as team leaders. I know that they will help build upon the great traditions of our program and compete for ACC Championships and nationally."