By Justin Sokeland
WBIW.com
BEDFORD – Sammie Gratzer considers herself more of an animal person than a people person. And that’s understandable, considering some pets are better listeners and companions. Her circle of friends might be smaller, but her reach was huge when she turned loose her inner animal on the volleyball court.
Gratzer, Bedford North Lawrence’s feared middle hitter, will continue her career at the next level after signing with IU East on Monday afternoon. After earning All-Hoosier Hills Conference honors as a senior, she will join the program of Red Wolves coach Kim McConaha as the tallest hitter on the roster.
Her future will include a lot of studying. Gratzer plans to major in biology and ultimately pursue a doctorate in physical therapy specializing in animal recovery. Volleyball will offer a break from all the book work ahead.
“I love the distraction it takes away from the real world,” Gratzer said. “I love the people I meet along the way and all the relationships. I just love focusing on something. I’m so excited.”
IU East competes in the River States Conference and the NAIA level. Gratzer chose that path because of the program atmosphere.
”When I played with them during my visiting day, I saw how much of a family they are,” she said. “The girls really like each other, and I liked the area and coach a lot.”
Gratzer was the focal point of the BNL offense as the Stars went 15-15 last season.
“It’s just an honor to coach her,” BNL coach Aaron Wagoner said. “She’s such a good kid, she’s so smart. It’s cool to see her push herself to the next level. For the last two years, it’s been pushing her, ‘You can do more.’
”I’m go glad she’s taken that step. If you put that out there in front of them, at an early age, it shows there is a lot of opportunity out there. You have to go for it.”
