KARNS CITY — Nicole Bajuszik's excitement over securing Ava Fox for the La Roche University women's volleyball program goes beyond finding the right fit. It's finding the right fit at potentially three positions.

Fox, a senior at Karns City, recently signed to continue her academic and athletic career with the Redhawks. She also considered Washington & Jefferson and Indiana (Pa.) University.

Karns City senior Ava Fox, center, recently signed to play volleyball at La Roche University. Pictured with her are parents Jason, left, and Nicole. Holly Mead/Special to the Eagle

"A lot of times, you're bringing in a player with a dominant position," said Bajuszik, "but I'd been recruiting Ava for well over a year and we see her having the ability to play anywhere from outside to middle to right-side hitter for us. With our program, versatility is everything."

Her play outside of high school helped Fox improve her game.

"I started playing volleyball in the seventh grade," she said. "I began as a middle hitter for the high school team, got in some games and lettered as a freshman. In tenth grade, I got experience at outside hitter for my club team and that's when I set a goal of playing in college.

"I'm looking forward to facing higher competition and improving my game."

Fox, who plans to major in forensics, is also a jumper in the spring for KC's track and field team. Playing mostly at middle hitter this season for the Gremlins, she tallied 166 kills, 174 digs, 43 aces and 16 blocks. The effort earned for Fox second team All-Conference honors.

"She can cover the whole net, is good at blocking and was a consistent go-to player for us," said Karns City coach Taylor Mazzaferro.

Bajuszik is anxious to see if Fox can make an impact for La Roche next fall.

"For some programs, freshmen rarely see the floor," she said. "But if she comes in confident and ready to go, she will see playing time.

"Ava brings a lot of energy and awareness to the court. She places the ball well and knows what's happening on the other side of the net."

Bajuszik also played at La Roche and is in her 12th season of leading the Redhawks. The team is currently 14-7 overall and 4-2 in Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference play.

"Bringing in recruits like Ava is how we get to the playoffs and continue a strong tradition," said Bajuszik.