WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) — Tori Highland's journey to Ancilla College's volleyball court is anything but normal.
The Harrison product was cut twice while in high school, but continued playing travel/club volleyball in the meantime. Highland's skills improved over her two years away from the Raider volleyball program.
"In the back of my head I was like, I need to come back bigger, better, and stronger," said Highland.
Highland returned to Harrison head coach Mandy Johnson for her senior season, and made the team. Highland's efforts earned her a role with the Raiders, and during the 2020 volleyball season she recorded 51 kills.
Highland committed to Ancilla College's volleyball program Wednesday night, and now she's realizing a dream that, at one point, seemed like a long shot.
"I can remember being super little, and always wanting to be one of this big college volleyball players," said Highland.
Wednesday's signing was just the latest chapter in Highland's book of fighting through the adversity, and she's had the ultimate back-up along the way.
"I think I have the biggest family supporters ever," said Highland. "Especially my grandpa, he passed away in April. So this right here is something he has always dreamt of, for me going big."
"I am always getting pushed harder and harder by my parents to do my best, to try my best so I get to go on after my two years at Ancilla and I think it's the best support they could have ever given me."
