George Washington University Athletics
GW Volleyball Alumna Whyte Signs Pro Contract
8/4/2015 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
WASHINGTON - George Washington volleyball alumna Lauren Whyte ('13) has signed a professional contract with Azeryol Baku of Azerbaijan's Super League, one of the top leagues in Europe.
Whyte, an Atlantic 10 All-Conference First Team and CoSIDA Academic All-District selection as a senior in 2012, was a four-year letterwinner for the Colonials. She ranks second all-time in program history with 1,625 career kills and 4,948 attempts. She appeared in 448 sets during her career, ranking ninth all-time.
The Olmsted Falls, Ohio, native was also an Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team selection in both 2010 and 2011 and an All-Rookie pick in 2009.
"Four years as a student-athlete is not easy with 7 a.m. practices, two-a-days and road trips all while being a full-time student," said Whyte. "Under Coach Ault, we worked very hard on the technical aspects of passing and defense and we were one of the most conditioned teams in the Atlantic 10. It was good to see the hard work pay off at GW and I am honored to be able to play in one of the top professional leagues. My coaches and former teammates have been very supportive and I will always look back fondly on the work ethic and focus that was instilled in me while at GW."
The Super League is the top professional volleyball league in Azerbaijan and ranks among the best women's professional leagues in Europe. Several current and former USA National Team members compete in the league, along with national team players from Germany, Poland, Thailand and Azerbaijan.
Azeryol finished in third place in the six-team league in 2014-15. Whyte joins fellow Atlantic 10 alumna Janelle Sykes of VCU on Azeryol.
"I believe I am being brought onto this team for my passing consistency and attacking strength, two things that GW helped me develop," said Whyte. "I am very thankful for the opportunity to continue playing the sport I love. I have a strong foundation developed while at GW with great mentors in my former coaches, agent and the support of my friends and family."
Following graduation, Whyte has been working as a research assistant in the Division of International Finance at the Federal Reserve Board. She has stayed active on the volleyball court, competing for the Chesapeake Rising Tide in the Premier Volleyball League.
