Nov. 20, 2001

Chicago, Ill. - University of Illinois at Chicago women's volleyball coach Don August announced on Tuesday that he has signed Katie Kozak (Oak Forest, Ill./Mother McAuley) and Sarah Lang (Yorktown, Ind./Muncie-Burris) to National Letters of Intent.

Kozak, a setter, averaged 12 assists per game and accumulated 239 digs for the Mighty Macs this season. Mother McAuley, at one point, was ranked No. 1 in the country.

"Katie comes from a tremendous winning background," August said. "She's a setter who brings leadership skills, confidence and just very good setting ability to that position.

"She knows how to run an offense and a team," August continued. "And she knows how to win."

Lang, an outside hitter, finished the season with 118 kills and 51 digs. She helped lead Muncie-Burris to four straight Class 2A championships. She was also a member of the Munciana Volleyball Club that finished third in the nation in the 17 and under tourney.

"Sarah comes from an outstanding club program," August said. "They have been one of the top clubs in the Midwest and in the nation for a number of years.

"She gives us a very good volleyball player with great fundamental training," August continued. "She's a good solid, all-around volleyball player, good blocker, strong hitter and a good solid server.

"She will be a solid contributor for us next season."