Anna Norris has “set” her sights on the next level of volleyball.

On Nov. 29, the Sand Rock senior signed a full two-year volleyball scholarship with Southern Union Community College in Wadley.

A five-year starter and a four-time All-County selection at the setter position, Anna this season contributed a county-best 882 assists, 134 digs and 39 aces while helping the Lady Wildcats to a 35-16 record and a berth in the Class 2A state semifinals.

Last year, Anna collected 771 assists and 52 aces, while in 2002 she registered 422 assists and 33 aces.

A fixture in the Lady Wildcat rotation since the 8th grade, Anna had a significant hand in helping the school’s volleyball program improve from a winless 2000 season to two Elite Eight appearances in three years.

“It’s definitely a big leap from high school to college volleyball,” said Anna. “I hope that I can do as well [at Southern Union] as I did here.

“My teammates here at Sand Rock really helped me get to where I am today, and I couldn’t have done it without them.”

“Myself, [assistant volleyball coach] Johnny [Howell] and Anna’s teammates are all very proud for her for this achievement,” said Sand Rock head volleyball coach Lisa Bates. “She played very well for us and she’ll play very well for Southern Union. Anna has been invaluable this program. If you don’t have a good setter, you won’t win on a consistent basis. I’m looking forward to seeing Anna do some things at Southern Union that we weren’t able to have her do while she was here.

“We’re very excited to sign Anna,” said Southern Union head volleyball coach Karie Striplin. “Anna really impressed me with her hands when we worked her out, and we hope that she can come in and fulfill our needs at setter in college competition.

“Anna’s versatility with her sets, along with her five years of varsity experience, will really help with the talent that we have coming back. Anna is our first signee of the year, and we hope to have a few more girls join her next year.