Lady Jackets Sign West High Volleyball Standout (Dec. 3, 2004)

BILLINGS, MT – Montana State-Billings head volleyball coach Pa’ulasi Matavao has announced that Taylor Faught of Billings West High School has signed a national letter of intent to play for the Yellowjackets next season.  Faught signed the NLI during the NCAA’s early signing period between November 10 and November 17.

“I think she’ll fit in here,” said Matavao.  “She has the potential to do well in our system.  She’s willing to come in and learn, and that’s a big plus.  I think she was by far the best setter in the state this year.  She’ll bring athleticism to our setter position.”

Faught helped lead West High to a 26-2 overall record for the recently completed season.  The Bears defeated Great Falls High in the 2004 State AA Volleyball championship match, where Faught accounted for 44 of the team’s 45 assists.

Faught earned first team all-state honors as both a junior and a senior.  She was named to the Class AA honorable mention team in her sophomore season.  A three-year letter winner for the Bears, Faught holds the school’s single season and career records for assists.

“I was very impressed with the program,” said Faught of her choosing MSU Billings.  “I wanted a school close to home.  There is a very good education program there, too.  The volleyball is very quick.  I am excited to learn the system and help contribute to the team.”

The Yellowjackets were 14-11 this season and placed fourth in the PacWest Conference.  It was the first winning season in the program’s history.