Posted: Jan 20, 2012
Umbarger was coached at Neosho County Community College (NCCC) by Asya Herron. She helped lead the Panthers to a 23-16 overall record in 2011, finishing with 193 kills, 95 blocks, and a .276 hitting percentage. She earned all-tournament team honors at the Coffeyville Community College Invite and was instrumental in NCCC's five-game upset over ninth ranked Central Community College.
During her high school career, Umbarger earned first team all-conference honors while helping her Girard High School team to three-straight CNC league championships and two sub-state titles. Her squad also earned the AVCA Team Academic Award three-consecutive years.
"Andi is an enthusiastic, high energy player that blends nicely with our Bruin family," said Siedlik. "Her experience will bring more depth in the middle that will suit our needs to continue the success we have had at Bellevue."
Umbarger, who will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Bruins, was a member of her school's Honor Roll as well as the National Honors Society. She plans on majoring in graphic design at Bellevue.
"Andi comes from a solid program and she knows how to win. We are so glad that Bellevue will be able to accommodate her graphic design ambitions," added Siedlik.
Umbarger joins earlier signee Beth Walker, a 5-8 setter from Dubuque, Iowa (Wahlert Catholic HS), who signed with Bruins last December.
Bellevue finished the 2011 season with a No. 25 final national ranking, winning the 2011 MCAC Tournament title after finishing second in the MCAC regular season. The Bruins advanced to the NAIA National Tournament for the fifth-straight season.
