Laughlin signs with Stormers

BELLE PLAINE — Belle Plaine senior Kayleah Laughlin made things official Wednesday, as she signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at Milwaukee Area Technical College.

The Plainsmen’s outside hitter verbally committed earlier this year.

“It feels really good,” Laughlin said. “I feel relaxed that I am not worried about my future now.”

At one point Laughlin did not even want to pursue volleyball at the next level.

“Originally I did not want to play volleyball (in college),” Laughlin said. “April (Coach Kressley) changed my whole mind on volleyball and helped me find my love for the sport again.”

How Laughlin came to choose the Stormers is an interesting story.

“I actually played for the coach in Spain my sophomore summer going into my junior year,” Laughlin said. “She offered me there, and I said no.”

Laughlin thought things over and decided to go on a visit anyways.

“I said you know what, I might as well give it a shot and go up there for a visit,” Laughlin said.

The visit went well, leaving Laughlin with a decision to make.

“A week later I decided I want to go here,” Laughlin said. “I love the city environment and everything about it.”

The Stormers compete in the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association in Division II.

The volleyball team finished 34-8 last season and advanced to the national tournament in November. The national tournament was held at the Alliant Energy Power House in Cedar Rapids.

Laughlin will pursue a degree in Sonography.

In her two seasons for the Plainsmen, Laughlin finished with a career total of 464 kills, 86 blocks, 515 digs and 133 aces.

Add in her first two seasons at South Tama, and Laughlin totaled 709 kills.

The Plainsmen senior also earned all-district and first team all-conference honors this past season.