UAlbany Volleyball's Laurie Gonzalez Competes on United States Women's A2 Team

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany's Laurie Gonzalez, who recently completed her sophomore year with the Great Danes, earned a bronze medal as a member of the U.S. Women's National A2 Red Team at he USA Volleyball Open National Championships held at the Phoenix Convention Center from May 29-June 1.

Gonzalez, a two-time America East Conference Defensive Player of the Year, was a member of the 24-player National A2 volleyball program that trained in Tempe, Ariz. from May 24-28. The group was split into two 12-member rosters for the open championships. The A2 Blue Team won the tournament title.

"Playing with the A2 for the second time was even better than the first time," said Gonzalez, who was making her second appearance with the national squad. "I had the opportunity to play with some of the top volleyball players in the nation and compete in a higher level. Its a great educational & competitive experience, it gave me an idea of what it's like in the next level."

The athletes were selected from a group of participants at the U.S. Women's National Team Open Tryouts held back in February at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Gonzalez was one of 175 athletes in attendance.

"I had the opportunity to learn new skills that I can bring to my UAlbany team and make us all better," said Gonzalez, a native of Carolina, Puerto Rico. "In general, playing with the A2 team is a physical & mental challenge that only made me better. I made new friends, met some amazing people and played some great volleyball."

Gonzalez and the Great Danes will return to action in August. Entering her junior season, Gonzalez will look to lead UAlbany to a third straight America East Conference regular season title. UAlbany finished 22-9 last season with back-to-back undefeated conference records.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information