Volleyball players, Oliva Stevens and Maryn Dean, have both officially committed to D1 schools this year as juniors in high school. Having experienced success on and off the court during high school, led to the news. Both made varsity for three consecutive years, and have won state each year.
“I was surprised, and never expected I would commit North Carolina A&T,” Dean said. “It’s far from home, but its more comforting knowing Liv and I would be close.”
While Dean committed to NCA&T, Stevens committed to Elon University, who had a rush of feeling come over her when she found out.
“My initial reaction was I was just happy and excited,” Stevens said.
Since the girls have played for a number of year, committing as a junior came as no surprise. Their volleyball careers span years, having played most of their lives, separately on school teams and together on the MAVS, a club volleyball team. Over the years, both club and school volleyball have resulted in them forming a very close bond.
“I’ve played with Liv so long and absolutely love getting to play and spend time with her,” Dean said.
Coincidentally, both girls will be going away to NCA&T and Elon are minutes away from each other.
“It’s very exciting to go to college in the same state as Maryn,” Stevens said. “Knowing that I will have someone that I know and am close with is a big stress relief.”
In addition to playing volleyball, Stevens will study criminal psychology. Stevens independently decided to go to Elon, knowing that this college would be the place for her. At the rest of her time here, she plans on running for herd exec and focusing on grades.
“I feel good going to Elon, but also know that I still have work to do but definitely proud that I’m getting seen,” Stevens said.
Dean committed to North Carolina A&T Augus where she will study nursing.
“I loved the city and with me being already a very independent person,” Dean said.
The girls are thrilled to be given this opportunity to go to college together, and are
grateful for the opportunities given to them by the school and the support from their coaches and teammates.
“I absolutely love the school and the small family-like environment,” Dean said.
