AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - Caprock’s Marlene Ramirez signed to continue her academic and athletic career at Frank Phillips College, where she will join the Plainsmen volleyball team.
Ramirez, who played setter for the Lady Horns, said signing to the next level is a dream come true and something she never thought she would be able to accomplish.
“It means such a big thing to me,” Ramirez said. “This has been one of my accomplishments and such a big dream I’ve never really thought I could accomplish and now I’m here.”
Ramirez’s journey from middle school standout to college signee
Caprock head volleyball coach Branda Morales said she knew Ramirez was going to be special watching her play in middle school, and her versatility as a setter was a key part to the Lady Horns’ success.
“I actually remember the first time walking into Fannin’s gym and seeing her and watching her run the court as a middle schooler,” Morales said. “We knew that she was going to be something special coming up at here at high school, and she filled a really big role for us in the setting position and playing all the way around.”
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Morales said Ramirez brought strong work ethic and coachability to the team.
“You couldn’t ask for anybody better as far as work ethic and coachability and positive attitude and just a fantastic teammate,” Morales said. “Frank Phillips is definitely getting a gem, and we are beyond excited to watch her.”
Looking ahead to the next chapter
Ramirez said she is nervous and excited for this next chapter and can’t wait to join the Frank Phillips College volleyball community.
“It’s kind of nerve-wracking because I’m never really away from home, but it’s such a big deal. Such a good, exciting thing to learn and just to learn how to live with myself and new people,” Ramirez said.
She said the team atmosphere at Frank Phillips College made her feel comfortable.
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“Everybody was so comfortable with each other. It made me feel really comfortable with them, and that’s all I really needed to know. I just loved everybody there, it was so nice,” Ramirez said.
Ramirez said her coaches at Caprock have supported her both on and off the court.
“They have taught me so much,” Ramirez said. “I’ve learned so much in the school. The people around me have taught me so much. My coaches are always here to listen to me, even if it’s on the court or off the court, and I really appreciate everybody and everything they’ve done for me.”
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