Photo by Owen Gotimer
By Spencer DuPuis
LoCoSports Staff Writer
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Leesburg (December 22, 2016) — Loudoun County High School senior Hailey Rubino has made a commitment to continue her volleyball career at the University of New Mexico starting in the 2017-2018 school year.
“I just really loved Albuquerque, and the campus,” the 5-foot-11 Rubino said. “Also, the Lobos’ program really attracted me.”
The Division I Lobos are coached by Jeff Nelson — who will enter his 11th season at the helm of the program in the fall of 2017. In 2016, Nelson led the Lobos to a 16-16 record — including a 6-12 record in the Mountain West Conference.
“It feels great [to be committed], after years of experiencing the recruiting process, it’s nice to know that I have found the place for me, that I’m going to be spending my next four years,” Rubino said.
The outside hitter — who will be traveling over 1,800 miles from Leesburg to Albuquerque next summer — mentioned that she believes she can make an impact as early as her freshman season.
“I think I’ll add energy and consistency to the team next year,” Rubino said.
Loudoun County — just like it has done for the nine of the past ten years — won the VHSL 4A state title yet again in 2016, and Rubino was huge part of the success as she was named All-Conference 21B, All-4A West region, and VHSL 4A All-State Player of the Year. Rubino was also named the 2016 Cheers and LoCoSports All-LoCo Player of the Year.
Rubino mentioned that after transferring from Paul VI before her senior year, she loved that the Lady Raiders were so welcoming to her.
“[It was] such an amazing experience. I love the team, coaches, and the program; they have all been so welcoming to me,” Rubino said.
Rubino — who plays her club volleyball for Metro VBC — also mentioned that her parents were big elements in getting her into the sport since they had big roots in it.
“Well, both my parents played volleyball in college, and once I got started playing I just couldn’t stop” Rubino said. “I love the team aspect of it and knowing your team has always got your back. It’s just a great sport to be a part of.”
