CRANBERRY TWP — It had been more than a year since Elizabeth Feczko made the decision to attend Villanova University to continue her academic and volleyball career.

It seemed like much longer to the North Catholic star.

The anticipation for the next chapter of her life grew exponentially over the months.

Finally last week, the senior libero was able to make it official, signing her national letter of intent with Villanova.

“I committed a while ago,” Feczko said. “It was always real, but putting my name on that paper made it seem more like it was coming soon. I've been waiting so long, now it finally seems like it is right around the corner.”

Feczko isn't alone in committing early. Many high school standouts have decided to get their college choice out of the way, sooner rather than later.

While it takes the pressure off to make such a huge decision early, it also leaves a lot of time to wait.

“It was last August (when I committed), so over a year ago,” Feczko said. “ I have friends who committed when they were freshmen and I can't even imagine that. When you commit, you are so excited and you get that adrenalin rush to go. Then you remember, 'Oh, wait. I have two more years before I can go.'”

But when you know, you know.

Feczko said she knew right away Villanova was the place for her because it blended the things she was looking for perfectly.

Academic rigor, a faith-based community and a good volleyball program.

Of course, Feczko still has some unfinished business with North Catholic.

Last year as a junior, Feczko moved from her natural position as a libero to setter.

She had a standout season, helping the Trojanettes to the PIAA Class 2A championship.

This year, she moved back to libero and has flourished even more.

“There's nothing I love more than the satisfaction of digging a hard attack, which I get to experience a lot more as a libero,” Feczko said. “I did enjoy running the offense as a setter, but I am a lot more comfortable as a libero, and I know I'm getting the repetition that will prepare me for college.”

North Catholic coach Amanda Fetter has long lauded Feczko's play.

Feczko is one of only two seniors on the North Catholic roster this season as the Trojanettes, who won the WPIAL Class 2A title, are chasing a repeat championship at the state level.

“E, that kid is a stud,” Fetter said. “No other way to put it.”