NASHVILLE- Last week, Tennessee State University Tiger Volleyball head coach Donika Sutton announced the signing of three players. In that interview, she clarified that her staff still needed to finish bringing in more talent. This week, she officially announced the signing of three more players and reiterated her commitment that she has some high expectations for the 2023 season.

"We understand that winning the OVC gives us more notoriety," said Sutton. "On the positive side, we will get some players interested in us that probably wouldn't be. The other side is that it sets a target on us. The players that we are bringing in and our returners understand that. Our grind is the same, however. Hard work will always be how we approach things."

The hard work in recruiting has shown up. This week's newcomers include 6'3 setter Hennesys Lalane-Tejeda, who comes in from Indian Hills (Iowa) Community College as a Junior College All-American. The incoming junior from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, appeared in 48 matches in 2022, 34 of which she recorded 30 plus assists with a high of 58. Lalane-Tejada, whom Power 5 Schools highly recruited, averaged 10.3 assists per set last season.
Lalane-Tejada's teammate at Indian Hills, Erica Calderon-Rosario, is a 6'3 middle joining a formative front line. She also hails from Santo Domingo. Her size and versatility will be something to look forward to for Tigers fans.

 Incoming freshman libero Jadyn Webb led Cox Hill (Concord, North Carolina) High School in digs with 613 last season, with her high game being 51. Webb brings international experience to TSU, being a member of the U.S. Virgin Islands National Team.

The six recruits that have signed bring needed depth to the Tigers. There will be some exciting battles for playing time during the preseason. The competition will only improve the team and prepare them for a grueling season.

"Iron sharpens iron is what it will be," said Sutton. "Having this type of talent is a good problem to have. We are not satisfied yet. These players all come from winning organizations. We were intentional with the type of player to bring in. Now we need to put the pieces together."