Valpo High setter Tarrah Lasky picks Valpo U

Tarrah Lasky grew up 10 minutes away from the Athletics-Recreation Center at Valparaiso University.

She fell in love with the Crusaders, attending all kinds of events -- including volleyball games -- while hoping to one day play for the school.

When VU offered the Valpo High junior setter a scholarship, she couldn't say 'yes' fast enough.

"To be asked to play for them was a dream in itself," said Lasky, who will join the team for the 2013-14 season. "Growing up in Valpo, I've always been going to Valpo events and I loved going there."

As a junior, Lasky set school records for assists in a match and in a season. She recorded 1,323 assists for the Vikings, who won the Duneland Athletic Conference title and a sectional championship. She added 39 aces, 328 digs and 90 kills.

She was also selected to the Indiana North Junior All-Star team.

She is the first Valpo High player since 2001 grad Kelly Linebrink to join the Crusaders.

"(VU coach) Carin (Avery) recruits such high-caliber kids, and Tarrah fits that mold as well," said Julie Wiejak, director of South Shore Volleyball Club where Lasky is the setter for the 18U team. "The kids exceed almost every year on and off the court.

"She's a total Horizon League player, a good Valpo setter. They've always been kind of versatile and Tarrah is that versatile player."

Making her commitment early helped ease pressure for the Times All-Area first-team player.

"There's so much stress put off by knowing where I'm going to school," Lasky said. "I knew there were some schools out East and out West that had looks at me, but nothing really close to home and that was another factor. As close as Valpo is, that really helped me make my decision."

Lasky said that by the time she starts college, her younger brothers -- who are three-sport athletes -- will be starting their own high school careers.

"That'll be perfect, because I will still be able to see all of their events and watch them in sports," Lasky said. "I know myself, I didn't want to go far away at all. (Staying in) Indiana was a hopeful thing, so getting this offer was very gratifying."

Times correspondent Paul Oren contributed to this report.