Loras College Athletics

Why Loras: "I chose to attend Loras college because it is a strong academic institution, rich in tradition with an overwhelmingly welcoming community, as well as it is college that allows one to grow in their faith life (which is often difficult to find and experience for adolescents and young adults). Another reason I chose Loras is because I felt that it offered me the opportunities to succeed in college and even more after college. The athletic program is merely a bonus to the entire Loras College experience.”

What it means to be a Duhawk: "Being a Duhawk means that I bleed purple & gold, and more importantly that I truly personify our mascot "Dewey", and treat him as if he is my best friend. We proudly wear the golden "L" emblem across our apparel- representing and advertising the culture that Duhawk Athletics creates and shares with others.”

Favorite memory at Loras: "I enjoy dancing to levels with Danielle Kennedy before every game.”

2014: Appeared in 16 matches ... Season-high in kills (13) and digs (18) against Carthage College on 9/6 ... Set career-high in attacking percentage (.212)
 
2013: Appeared in 30 matches … Recorded a team-high 12 kills, 11 digs, and 4 aces in her Duhawk debut on August 30 … Led the team with 294 kills for the season

High School: Graduate of Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock, Illinois … Three-year varsity volleyball player for Laura Watling in the Suburban Christian Conference … Named to Academic All-Conference (2010 & 2011), All-Conference (2011 & 2012), All-Area (2012), Team MVP (2012), and Sports Town Chicago All-Star Team selection in 2012 … State runner-up in 2011 in class 3A … Third place finish in 2010

Personal: Tara Anne Blake … Daughter of Jim and Kristin and sister of Jana and Michael Blake … Born in Crystal Lake, Illinois … Played club for Sky High Volleyball … Names Jeff Samardzja as her favorite professional athlete … Lists Chicago Blackhawks as her favorite professional teams … Best memory from the summer is working Loras All Sports Camp