July 12, 2001

The University of Kentucky volleyball program has announced the signing of Anne Koester, a junior transfer from Illinois. Koester, a 6-4 right-side hitter, played in 36 matches during her two-year career at Illinois. She hit .244 last season and ranked third on the team with 259 kills. Koester was also third on the team in blocking, averaging 0.6 blocks per game. The Muncie, Ind., native was granted a release from her scholarship in April by Illini officials. "I am thrilled to have Anne Koester join our program," Coach Jona Braden said. "She brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the right side of our offensive system. She is deeply committed to becoming the best that she can be." Koester was a four-year letterwinner at Burris Lab School in Muncie, where she earned All-State status during her junior and senior seasons. Her team won its conference championship each year that Koester lettered and was the state champion in 1997 and 1998, while winning the High School Season National Championship in 1997.

Koester was named Academic All-Big Ten in 2000 and was named a James Bayne Scholar at Illinois in 2000 and 2001. "Her enthusiasm for learning is inspiring," Braden said. "Not only does she provide many strengths on the court, but she is an incredible example of pursuing excellence in the classroom. I am really looking forward to working with Anne." With the one-time transfer rule in college volleyball, Koester is eligible to play immediately.