Dec. 30, 2009

CHICAGO - UIC head volleyball coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley announced the signing of Mary Kate Imrie (Orland Park, Ill./Sandburg H.S.) and Maggie Strus (Hickory Hills, Ill./Stagg H.S.) who will join the Flames for the 2010 campaign.

"I am thrilled to have Maggie and Mary Kate join our program," said Flames head coach Katie Schumacher-Cawley. "With both players coming from competitive high school and club programs, their level of energy will only make us better as a team."

Imrie, a first-team All-State selection by both the Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun-Times, guided Sandburg to three consecutive regional championships and a pair of conference crowns to close out her high school campaign.

The Orland Park native was the Eagles assists leader in her final two seasons at Sandburg, averaging over 18 assists and six digs a match as a senior.

"Mary Kate had tons of success this past high school season," said Schumacher-Cawley. "She has a strong ability to run the court."

As a four-time letterwinner at Stagg, Strus took the Chargers to three regional titles and four-straight South Suburban conference championships.

The three-time all-conference selection tailed over 11 kills a match average as a senior, while leading the team in kills, blocks and digs.

"Maggie will bring a physical presence and has great experience playing in different positions," said Schumacher-Cawley.