A two sport athlete, Gariel Pierce has decided to join forces with Blackburn for the upcoming school year where she will major in psychology. Pierce is from Southeast High in Springfield, Ill. and is the daughter of Gary and Shari Pierce. She plans to play both tennis and basketball while at Blackburn. Excited about getting a new start next year, Pierce loves the idea of making new friends and playing two of the sports she loves the most at the collegiate level. Blackburn being so close to home, as well as the affordable tuition and the friendly atmosphere on campus were major factors in deciding her commitment. "On the visit everyone was really nice to me," said Pierce.
Pierce is excited about the opportunity to play both basketball and tennis at Blackburn. She loves the idea of having new teammates and a fresh start. "This summer I plan on practicing hard and getting my skills stronger to help, not only myself, but my new teammates," said Pierce when asked what is she is most excited about for basketball. When asked about tennis, she claimed that she is excited to be able to play and play well. She also expressed how she was pleased with how nice and interested head coach Dan Hussey was in having her at Blackburn next year.
Blackburn is certainly excited to have Pierce for the upcoming year and with student-athletes like her the future looks bright for the Beavers. "Pray hard, take a visit, then pray some more," advises Pierce to anybody considering Blackburn in the future.