CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois volleyball head coach Chris Tamas announced the addition of Christine Pullen on Friday. Pullen joins five other newcomers – Kenzie Cogan, Christina Martinez Mundo, Ashlyn Philpot, Raegen Reilly and Laynie Smith – for the upcoming season.
Christine Pullen // Naperville, Ill. // Benet Academy // 1st Alliance Club // DS // 5-6
Notes: Three-year varsity letterwinner at Benet Academy… Finished as state runner-up in 2022 and 2023… Honorable Mention for Naperville Sun Girls All-Area Team in 2023… Academic Girls All-State in 2023… Named team captain as a senior… Played on the 1st Alliance Club team, ranked second in the nation… Finished third at the USAV Nationals for the 18’s team in 2023… Named a Top High School Player in Class of 2024 by Illinois Prep Volleyball… Came in second at the USAV Nationals for the 17’s team in 2022… Has two uncles who played baseball at Illinois.
Coach Tamas on Pullen: “In our time evaluating Christine, she has shown she has a feel for the ball as a passer and the tenacity you need on the defensive end. She has played on many winning teams both in high school and club. Christine will be a great addition to our back-row play and as a teammate.”
Why Illinois? “I wanted to play at a big school with strong academics. My sister, two uncles, aunt, and six cousins attended Illinois. Many of my family conversations bleed Blue and Orange! I am super excited to play Big Ten volleyball! The amazing coaches and FamILLy environment made it an easy choice.”
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