Pasadena athletes in action: College volleyball

The following volleyball players, all with Pasadena high school ties, have scheduled action this week:

Kristin Cruse, Winthrop University
Position: Defensive specialist
High school: Winthrop University
This week:
Wednesday, Nov. 7, versus North Carolina Central
Friday, Nov. 9, at Presbyterian College
About Cruse: Cruse, a senior defensive specialist for Winthrop University, graduated from Deer Park High School in 2009. She was selected to the 2008 and 2009 all-state and all-district teams and led her high school to district championships in 2007 and 2008.

Nancy Cole, Rice University
Position: Middle blocker
High school: Pasadena Memorial High School
This week:
Friday, Nov. 9, at Tulsa
Sunday, Nov. 11, at Southern Methodist University
About Cole: Cole, a senior middle blocker for Rice University, graduated from Pasadena Memorial High School in 2009. She was a three-time first team All District 22-5A performer and academic all-state as a senior in high school. She is the daughter of John and Chalayne Cole.

Tyler Jenkins, Rice University
Position: Outside hitter
High School: Deer Park High School
This week:
Friday, Nov. 9, at Tulsa
Sunday, Nov. 11, at Southern Methodist University
About Jenkins: Jenkins, a junior outside hitter for Rice University, graduated from Deer Park High School in 2010. She was a 2009 team captain in high school and named to the All-District 22-5A First Team and Academic Team. She is the daughter of Danel and Sharon Jenkins. September 20, 201112 on 7:00 PM, Women's Volleyball, Rice University at Tulsa (id: 544590)

Jamie Haas, Sam Houston State University
High School: Deer Park High School
This week: Tuesday, Nov. 6, at Northwestern State University
About Haas: Two-time All-District 22-5A libero on back-to-back district champions for coach Gay Sabatell. Led Deer Park to 25-15 season record and the second round of the Texas Class 5A playoffs. Academic All-State and All-District selection. Recognized as Deer Park's "Most Valuable Defensive Player" as senior. Also started on the softball team, hitting .316 as a senior. Played for Ava 18 Attack club team, winning bronze medals at Junior Olympics in 2004 and 2005. National Honor Society member.