It's been a big summer for Boerne Champion rising junior Marissa Drange. It started with a moment that confirmed the 2022 volleyball recruit's goal of earning a college athletic opportunity.

"The call I received on June 15th was life changing," said Drange.

That was preceded by an invite to a Southern Utah University volleyball camp in January 2019. She attended the event in Cedar City, where she met and worked with coaches Pete Hoyer and Lorelle Hoyer.

"I just felt an instant connection," said Drange. "When Coach Pete offered me a full scholarship to play for the Thunderbirds, I was overcome with joy. It has been my dream to play in college."