The process of reloading after the most successful season in program history is well underway for Lady Cardinal head volleyball coach Aleah Hayes. She has announced three mid-semester additions to the team.

Joining the Lady Cardinals, who this past season won Region XIV for a second straight year, posted the most wins in a season in school history and had the best-ever finish at the NJCAA tournament, are three international players.

The newest Lady Cardinals are Beatriz Piaia (Brazil), Sara Gamboa (Colombia) and Zorana Stankovska (Macedonia).

BEATRIZ PIAIA

6-2, Middle Hitter/Blocker

Piaia is a highly-acclaimed athlete out of Colegio Nova Visao High School, where she was named Middle Blocker of the State for three consecutive years.

Also, she played on a team winning three consecutive state championships.

"I chose TVCC because the values of the college and the team match mine and we have the same goals," Piaia said.

"I am excited to attend and compete at TVCC because I want to meet new people, go new places and play in the university league. I want to evolve more as an athlete and person, help my team achieve goals and write a beautiful story in the United States."

"We are thrilled to add Beatriz to our roster, as she brings height, strength and depth to our middle position," Hayes said. "She is versatile and is able to play high, which will be a great asset for the team.

SARA GAMBOA

6-0, Outside Hitter

Gamboa is no stranger to winning. She has played on no fewer than four championship squads.

An outside hitter out of Centro de Capacitacion San Ines High School, she also captured superlative honors in multiple tournaments, including MVP, Best Center, Best Outside Hitter and Best Attacker.

"I have been following TVCC on social networks for a long time and I love the family atmosphere that was visible," Gamboa said. "Since I found out about TVCC, it was a dream for me to be part of that family. I had many more college opportunities in different states, but I always thought my place was in TVCC."

"We are happy to have Sara," Hayes said. "I believe she will contribute quickly and will make her mark on our program

"Sara brings a strength to our team and she will elevate us and provide depth. Her joy for the game and work ethic will impact the team in a positive way."

ZORANA STANKOVSKA

5-4, Libero

Stankovska has long proven she can compete at a high level in Europe and is now ready to do the same in America.

She joins the Lady Cardinals after a highly successful career at Nikola Karev High School and club competition over a period of six years.

"I chose TVCC because I've heard great things about it from a friend of mine that went there," Stankovska said. "After some research, I found out about their great business program and excellent volleyball team. It seemed like the perfect place for me to continue my academics and sports career.

"I love changes, so I can't wait about all the new challenges and all the new things I am going to learn. European volleyball is a bit different from American, so with that I'm very excited to trying the American style."

"Zorana brings speed, energy and determination to our defense and will be able to jump right in with the team," Hayes said. "She has competed with some of the top players in Europe and will bring intensity.

"I am excited to have her with the Cardinal family."