Skryd's all set to play for Baylor

The Skryd family name is synonymous with top-notch setters in the area.

Sam Skryd is following in those footsteps.

The Neuqua Valley junior setter committed this week to play volleyball at Baylor University. Skryd joins her aunts Sara and Laura, who both played high school volleyball at St. Francis and went on to play collegiately at Long Beach State and Central Michigan, respectively.

"I've always wanted to be able to compete at the highest level," Skryd said. "College is the next step for me."

Skryd chose Baylor over Florida State, North Carolina State and Notre Dame. Baylor first saw Skryd play at a college showcase event in the Wisconsin Dells in March. The school e-mailed Skryd less than a week later, offering an invitation to visit the campus.

Baylor current runs a 5-1 offense, but will be switching to a 6-2 by the time Skryd is a freshman. Skryd plays setter in a 6-2 for both Neuqua Valley and Sports Performance, where she is a member of the 17 Mizuno team.

"Not being the tallest player out there, I had a little trouble with recruiting because of blocking and stuff," Skryd said. "Finding out they'd run a 6-2 and getting the chance to play right away my freshman year, I felt that was a great opportunity."

Skryd will also get a chance to play in the competitive Big 12 conference against top schools like Nebraska and Texas. Skryd plans on majoring in education.

"It has a beautiful campus with a great location (in Waco), an hour and a half away from Dallas and Austin," Skryd said. "They made me feel welcome and comfortable. They like the energy I bring to the court."