HUNTSVILLE | The University of Alabama in Huntsville volleyball program and head coach Dr. Cade Smith announced three additions to the team for the 2019-20 academic year, including Laekyn Bennett, Eden Pafford and Allie Thornton.
 
The trio of additions joins previous UAH volleyball commitments for 2019-20 by Emma Jarrett, Ally Kennis, Shayla Libby, and Molly Presnell.
 
"Our 2019 class adds a lot of talent and athleticism to our team. We lose four seniors who have played a lot of matches over the last four years, but I believe that this class, along with a strong 2018 class that now has a year of experience, can help us to continue to see improvement," Smith said.
 
"I am excited to add these young ladies to our program. They all make us better as athletes and more importantly, they are great teammates and their character will be a great addition to our team. They come from great families and successful high school and club programs, and I can't wait to have them on campus."
 
A full breakdown of the newcomers to the UAH volleyball program can be seen below.
 
Laekyn Bennett
Hometown: Moulton, Ala.
High School: Lawrence County
Club Team: Level Elite Volleyball
Position: Setter
Height: 5-6
 
Coach Smith on Bennett: "Laekyn is a great setter and defensive player that will add depth to our team. She is a terrific teammate and I am excited that she will be joining us in the fall."
 
Eden Pafford
Hometown: Camden, Tenn.
High School: Camden
Club Team: Tennessee Performance Volleyball
Position: Defensive Specialist
Height: 5-7
 
Coach Smith on Pafford: "Eden is a great defensive player that has already been playing a similar system to what we try to at UAH. She will add depth as a defensive specialist and we are looking forward to her being here with us."
 
Allie Thornton
Hometown: Huntsville, Ala.
Previous School: Austin Peay
High School: Sparkman
Club Team: NASA Volleyball Club
Position: Defensive Specialist
Height: 5-5
 
Coach Smith on Thornton: "I have known Allie for a few years and I am excited that she has joined our team for her senior year. She has been practicing with us since January and her energy and enthusiasm has already made a positive impact on our team."