Nov. 26, 2007

Chicago, Ill. - University of Illinois at Chicago Head Volleyball Coach Nancy Mueller has signed outside hitter/right side Kate Eldred (Greenwood, Ind./Roncalli) and middle blocker Janise Dismuke (Peoria, Ill./Richwoods) to National Letters of Intent to play for the Flames in 2008.

"We are so lucky to have signed two of the top recruits in the Midwest," said Mueller.

Eldred, a 5-9 outside hitter/right side, picked up Indiana All-State and All-Marion County accolades her senior year.

"Kate is a true competitor and her work ethic and determination are exactly what this team needs to be successful," said Mueller. "I look forward to coaching such a driven student-athlete."

Dismuke, a Peoria, Ill. native, earned All-Mid-State Six Conference honors last season.

"Janise is a pure athlete," said Mueller. "She has the ability to terminate balls at a high level."

The 6-2 middle blocker helped guide Richwoods High School to a Class 3A Regional title game appearance in 2007 after totaling 258 kills, 119 digs and 57 blocks on the season.

"Janise's impact will be immediate in this league and I am anxious for her to get on campus," said Mueller.