MOREHEAD, Ky. – The Class of 2024 is one to be excited about for the Morehead State volleyball team, as a pair of talented future Eagles – Tinsley Brown and Ruby Klusman -- have committed to MSU.
"We're excited to officially add Tinsley and Ruby to our Morehead State Volleyball family," said Head Coach
Kyrsten Becker-McBride. "When adding to our program, it's not just about a player's volleyball skill. While Tinsley and Ruby will both excel in our gym, their character, investment in those around them, and competitive attitude make it clear that they are meant to be Eagles!"
Tinsley Brown is a defensive specialist/libero from Knoxville, Tennessee, who has spent time at almost every position on the court, and brings a high volleyball IQ to the Eagle program.
"It's not often that you bring in a libero who has spent time at almost every position on the court. Throughout the recruiting process we've seen Tinsley play on the outside, right side, and as a libero," said Head Coach
Kyrsten Becker-McBride. "While it's incredible that her athleticism allows her to play anywhere, the piece that has impressed us the most is her willingness to do what is best for the team. We're excited to have such a high character person and elite level athlete as an Eagle!"
Brown has found success everywhere she's played on the court, totaling over 1,000 kills and 759 digs during her varsity career at Hardin Valley Academy under head coach Joy Waller. She played for K2 Volleyball under Coach J. Hames as well.
She racked up plenty of awards both on and off the court during her career, being named All-District and Team Varsity Player of the Year twice, and 5-Star Preps Co-Player of the Year as a senior. Off the court, Brown is a member of Mu Alpha Theta and the National Honors Society.
"I chose Morehead State because I loved the team culture and the coaching staff that cares so much about their athletes. It's a really competitive conference with matches close to home. I'm excited about getting to know my future teammates and creating memories with them!"
Ruby Klusman is an outside hitter from Cincinnati, Ohio, and has played varsity at Mercy McAuley High School under head coach Sam Gagnon for four years. She brings experience and leadership both on and off the court after serving as Team Captain and Student Body President during her senior year. Her team plays in the Ohio state tournament semifinals on Thursday.
"Ruby comes from a highly competitive background, including her high school team, club program, and family," said Head Coach
Kyrsten Becker-McBride. Klusman's family has history of competing at Division I programs, as her sister (Southern Mississippi, volleyball) and father (Eastern Michigan, football) were both student-athletes in college.
"As a member of a top ranked high school team and a club team that played in a national championship, she has consistently been in tested in tough situations, and never backs down from a challenge. Eagle fans will love to watch her play. She's an explosive, dynamic athlete with ball control in addition to a powerful arm. We hope they also notice how she celebrates her teammates more than herself, and does a great job connecting with others on the court. While she is a great athlete, Ruby is an even better teammate and competitor!"
To date, Klusman has 638 kills and 527 digs in her high school career, while being named a GGCL All Star twice. In the classroom, Klusman was Class President for three years and is currently serving as Student Body President.
At the club level, Klusman plays for Tri-State Elite under head coach Jenna Fessler. Last season on the 17-White Team, Klusman and her teammates won three tournaments and finished second at the AAU Nationals.
"I chose Morehead State because of the family-like community," said Klusman. "I really liked the school size, location, and atmosphere. It felt like home and I felt an immediate connection with the coaching staff, MSU staff and administrators that I met on my visit. I'm excited about meeting new people, experiencing college life, and being part of the Eagle family!"
