Volleyball | 11/8/2017 2:21:00 PM

MOORHEAD, Minn. — Minnesota State University Moorhead volleyball coach Tammy Blake has announced the signing of six athletes for 2018. Signing national letters of intent are Elise Bakke of Fargo, N.D., Amanda Carlson of Phoenix, Ariz., Addie Colligan of Bemidji, Minn., Lexi Gilbertson of Moorhead, Minn., Amber Klug of Maple Lake, Minn., and Madison Wassink of Sioux Falls, S.D.

"This is a very versatile group of well-rounded volleyball players," Blake said. "We're very excited about that."

Elise Bakke (MB, 5-11, Fargo, N.D./North HS)
Has 373 kills, 82 solo blocks and 48 assisted blocks…team captain…three-year letterwinner…also lettered in basketball and soccer.

"She is a very talented athlete that has strong jumping ability and quick lateral movement," Blake said. "She'll bring speed in the middle for us. She has the potential to be a strong middle in our league."

Amanda Carlson (OH, 5-11, Phoenix, Ariz./Sunnyslope HS)
5A Metro Second Team Hitter in 2016…state champion in 2016…season-match high kills of 18…played for Arizona Storm Volleyball Club…two-year letterwinner.

"She brings a high level of volleyball IQ from her club experience in Arizona," Blake said. "Her powerful attacking is a welcomed addition to our squad ."

Addie Colligan (S/DS, 5-7, Bemidji, Minn./Bemidji HS)
Had 1,719 career assists…senior season had 767 assists, 90 kills, 179 digs and 29 blocks…team MVP as a junior…four-year letterwinner…also lettered in basketball and track.

"She is a very athletic setter that brings a lot of successful volleyball experience," Blake said. "She is a strong competitor who has set in many high-level games.  She is an exciting addition to our program."

Lexi Gilbertson (OH, 5-9, Moorhead, Minn./Moorhead HS)
Voted most improved player in 2016…two-time state tournament participant…played for Moorhead Juniors…is fifth all-time with 695 kills (through Oct. 23) and ninth with 620 digs…had match high of 17 kills.

"Lexi has and incredible passion for the game and will bring a lot of positive energy to our program," Blake said. "Along with her ability to hit the ball, Lexi is equally as strong in her passing and defensive abilities. "

Amber Klug (RS/S, 5-10, Maple Lake, Minn./Maple Lake HS)
All-state honoree…also two-time all-conference selection…through 118 matches has 605 kills, 783 set assists and 158 blocks…part of 2016 state championship team…three-year letterwinner…also a standout in softball at Maple Lake…sister, Hannah played softball at MSUM from 2013-17…also signed with MSUM softball team.

"Amber is definitely a dynamic player that brings a lot of athletic ability to our program," Blake said. ". Not only can Amber terminate a ball at a high level but she also has  amazing setting placement as well ."

Madison Wassink (OH, 5-11, Sioux Falls, S.D./Harrisburg HS)
Member of 2016 state championship team…all-conference twice…team captain…made the JVA Watch List in 2016…four-year letterwinner…also lettered in track and field.

"Madison is a talented volleyball player with a tremendous upside ," Blake said.  "She is a strong all-around  player who will  definitely  bolster our outside hitting position."