LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – The Lock Haven University volleyball team and head coach Tom Justice have announced the hiring of a very familiar face to take over as assistant coach of the Lady Eagles for the 2008 season.

Cherry Li, a three time All-American for the crimson and white and 2006 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Division II Co-Player of the year is ready for her new task of helping to lead The Haven women’s volleyball program.

Li is a well qualified assistant as her playing resume speaks for itself and she brings with her a vast knowledge of the game that will only make the Lady Eagles stronger.

Justice couldn’t be happier with his new assistant.

“I’m very happy to have Li as my new assistant coach because of her experience as a player and knowledge of the game,” Justice said. “She will be a tremendous asset to our program and we’re fortunate to have her here.”

Justice is also very proud of the fact that Li is one of the Haven’s own having played in the system and graduating from LHU.

According to Justice the team also has a tremendous respect for her, which will greatly benefit the team dynamic.

Li said she is very excited about her new role and the opportunity to help the program. She also thanked coach Justice and Sharon E. Taylor, LHU Director of Athletics for the chance to coach here.

Along with being a three-time AVCA All-American and 2006 Co-Player of the Year, Li was four time All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) West selection. After her freshman season she was named PSAC West Rookie of the Year and was twice named conference player of the year.

During three of her four seasons she led the nation in hitting percentage and she holds several LHU career records including kills, hitting percentage, digs and blocks.

Following her senior season Li was a finalist for the Honda Collegiate Women Sports Award for the top student-athlete in Division II.

Li replaces Gen Kawakita, who has left Lock Haven to pursue his dream of coaching internationally. Kawakita recently worked with United States Women’s Olympic Team that brought home a silver medal in Beijing China.

Justice and Li will be in action tomorrow when the Lady Eagles kick off their 2008 season at the Shepherd University tournament.