Leja vu: It’s West Florida for Harper libero

Harper College freshman libero Andraia Leja (Prairie Ridge) has received a scholarship to Division II West Florida University to play volleyball. She plans on majoring in elementary education.

The Leja family is already familiar with the school. Andraia’s older brother Adam received an advanced degree in exercise science from West Florida, which is a member of the Gulf South Conference.

The Argos were 23-9 overall and 14-0 in league last season en route to appearing in the NCAA Division II tournament.

“I love the coach at West Flordia” said Leja, who leaves Harper with one year of eligibility remaining.

“I am delighted for her,” said Harper women’s coach Bob Vilsoet. “I knew she was looking at four-year schools.”

Vilsoet said Leja was a classic case for how the junior college system can work.

“This is a win-win situation,” Vilsoet said.

Leja visited the Pensacola campus the week before Thanksgiving break at Harper.

“I got along with the girls,” Leja said. “I was far away from home, but I felt at home.”

Leja is looking forward to having some beach time; the campus is just 30 minutes from the gulf coast.

West Florida graduated its starting libero from last year’s team. Leja will compete with another incoming recruit for playing time at the position.

“My parents have told me, “Nothing’s going to be given to you’,” Leja said.