SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Augustana volleyball head coach Dan Meske announced today the signing of Lexi Valentine from Sioux Falls to a National Letter of Intent at Augustana. Lexi and her parents, Verle and Carrie, are thrilled with the Augustana offer and are excited to join their new teammates in the locker room and on the court.
Lexi is now a member of the Augustana volleyball team thanks to Team IMPACT, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children facing life-threatening and chronic illnesses through the power of team.

"I know our team is excited," head coach Dan Meske said. "It's been a great opportunity for us to get to know Lexi. The word Impact is a really strong word for what Lexi is going to bring to our program. We have already seen that in the brief time that we have gotten to know each other."

Lexi is 14-years-old and attends Sioux Falls Christian. Lexi was diagnosed with chronic immunoglobulin deficiency, which has limited her abilities to participate in strenuous activities. Lexi has played volleyball and loves to watch the sport. Known for her sense of humor, she also loves to read, especially the classics. Lexi is an only child but has "brothers and sisters" from China and Slovakia that lived with her family and continue to visit regularly.

"Our team is really excited to have Lexi join us," junior middle blocker Bailey Koch said. "She is going to add a lot to our team. We'll never remember the game that we won or lost or got the most kills, we'll remember our time with Lexi. It's a great opportunity and thank you to Team IMPACT and Augustana for giving us this [opportunity]."
        
To learn more about the Team Impact program go to www.goteamimpact.org.