Most of Illini Volleyball Squad from Within State Lines

Unlike other schools, The Fighting Illini volleyball team can boast that most of its players come from Illinois.

For example, Penn State won four straight national championships before this year. But that's largely due its recruiting beyond the border of Pennsylvania.

Heading into Saturday night's title match, Fighting Illini coach Kevin Hambly doesn't feel he needs to go too far to lure high-quality volleyball players.

"We're fortunate that the University of Illinois is close proximity to some very good recruiting bases," he said. "Ohio, the Chicago area, the St. Louis area, and Indianapolis. Most kids, especially with the nature of how early recruiting is going, want to stay closer to home."

Illinois will take on UCLA at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The Fighting Illini are attempting to win their first national title in women's volleyball.