March 14, 2012

BERKELEY - Sophomore outside hitter Lauren Loerch has elected to transfer to New Mexico State after being released for transfer, Cal head coach Rich Feller announced recently.

"I'm very happy for Lauren that she's found a school where she can continue her volleyball career and her education," Feller said. "I'm supportive of her decision. She's done a lot for Cal volleyball and while we'll miss her, we wish only the best for her in her future."

A native of Georgetown, Texas, Loerch played for the Golden Bears in 2010 and 2011.

"Even though I will be leaving Berkeley after this semester, I will always have a special place in my heart for the friends, coaches and amazing Cal fans that have supported me for the past two years," Loerch said. "I am very excited for what the future holds for me and the memories I will make at NMSU."

As a sophomore this past fall, Loerch saw time in 34 sets across 14 matches, 17 of which she started. In 2011, she posted 12 kills and contributed a key 60 digs.

In 2010 as a freshman, Loerch played in 20 sets in 11 matches, notching a season-high 8.0 points and three blocks in her very first outing.

Loerch was the first student-athlete in Cal volleyball history to enroll in Berkeley early out of high school in the spring of 2010. She returned home to Texas to walk in graduation ceremonies before heading back to Berkeley for summer workouts.