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Wright realizes college dream

The Lecanto senior outside hitter signs a scholarship to play for Lake-Sumter

By DAWN REISS
Published April 21, 2005

Community College.

LECANTO - Tiffany Wright always has dreamed of signing a college scholarship.

For Wright, it's even better that her fantasy came close to home.

The Lecanto senior signed with Lake-Sumter Community College on Wednesday.

Nicknamed Tiffers, the 5-foot-7 outside hitter was instrumental in a strong Lecanto serve receive that kept opponents from scoring aces.

Wright, a multisport standout, began dreaming about playing college ball as a seventh-grader. She quickly caught the attention of third-year LSCC coach Steve Benson on the Leesburg-based Lake County Juniors, an 18-and-under club team.

"She has flourished and stepped up in the system," Benson said. "Her defense has drastically improved."

It is Wright's passing and foot movement that helped the travel squad and is critical in the long rallies at the college level. Benson said Wright has made progress at "terminating the ball," or getting the kill. Wright has continued to play, despite rolling her right ankle. The injury left her sidelined for part of the basketball season and now requires her to wear braces on both legs.

Benson won't say if Wright will start on next year's team, which includes 11 freshmen and four returning starters.

"She's got an excellent work ethic and is a good fit for the program," he said.

Wright, an honor-roll student, plans to study criminal justice and work as a forensic scientist.

Her goal is to play two seasons at Lake-Sumter and continue her career at a four-year school.

"Right now, it's just a relief to know I have some where to go," Wright said. "It's awesome."

- Dawn Reiss can be reached at 352 564-3628 or dreiss@sptimes.com

[Last modified April 21, 2005, 01:05:18]