GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, June 1, 2023) – A volleyball standout at Holland Christian High will get a chance to play close to home.
The Grand Rapids Rise of the fledgling Pro Volleyball Federation announced on Thursday the signing of middle blocker Alyssia Garvelink-Jensen as one its first three player signings.
A two-time first-team all-state performer for the Maroons, as well as a second-team high school All-American by the American Volleyball Coaches Association, Garvelink-Jensen became a starter as a freshman in the fall of 2014 at Michigan State, and eventually became a two-time first-team All-Big 10 standout, as well as a two-time second-team collegiate All-American by the AVCA.
“Having the opportunity to play professional volleyball in the U.S., and even better, in my home state, is a dream come true. The Pro Volleyball Federation and the Grand Rapids Rise made it possible for me to pursue my passion while also remaining close to family. Grand Rapids is full of great sports teams, but this league is the missing piece of the puzzle.” – Alyssia Garvelink-Jensen
Also signing with the Rise were outside hitter Claire Chaussee, formerly of the University of Louisville, and 14-year European and Asian pro volleyball veteran Emilya Dimitrova of Bulgaria. The team, founded under the umbrella of DP Fox Sports & Entertainment, plans to begin its first season this coming January, calling Van Andel Arena home.
