May 2, 2006

WINSTON-SALEM, NC - Winston-Salem State University head softball and volleyball coach Lataya Hilliard-Gray announced on Tuesday that both Antwanette "Toni" Tate (Wilmington, NC/E.A. Laney H.S.) and Lore McBroom (Wilmington, NC/E.A. Laney H.S.) have expressed their intent to attend WSSU and play volleyball, with Tate planning on becoming a member of the Lady Rams' softball team as well.

Tate, a 5'5' volleyball defensive specialist and softball catcher, has signed a National Letter of Intent to attend WSSU and play both volleyball and softball.  She will be expected to step in and contribute immediately for both programs.  Tate will graduate from Laney High School in June of 2006 where she was a co-captain of her high school teams en route to Most Valuable Player, Hustle Award, and All-Conference Honors. 

"I am excited that Toni has committed to continue her academic and athletic career at Winston-Salem State University as a Lady Ram.  Her talent will be a great addition to both programs as she is an outstanding student, athlete, and person." WSSU Head Coach Lataya Hilliard-Gray commented.

McBroom, a 5'8" setter/outside hitter has verbally committed to attend WSSU and be a member of the Lady Rams' volleyball team.  A Chancellor's Scholar, McBroom has not signed a letter of intent as she will attend WSSU on a full academic scholarship and NCAA rules limit National Letters of Intent to students receiving athletic grants-in-aid. 

"Lore is a tremendous setter and outside hitter and will allow us to be able to use her in a variety of positions and situations which will immediately make us a better team.  Her work ethic and commitment in the classroom has allowed her to join the Ram Family as a Chancellor's Scholar.  I am proud to have her join the program as she truly epitomizes a student-athlete in that she is a student first as well as being a superior athlete." Hilliard-Gray stated.

"Both of these two student-athletes have been exceptional athletes for their high school programs.  Their achievements in the classroom has allowed them to go even further on the court and playing fields.  We are truly lucky to have them express their desire to attend our fine institution."

Hilliard-Gray and the Lady Rams will enter into the second year of a five-year transition from NCAA Division II to NCAA Division I during the 2006-07 academic year.

For additional information on WSSU softball or volleyball, contact the WSSU Office of Sports Information at (336) 750-2143 or log on to the Official Website of WSSU Athletics at www.WSSURAMS.com

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