RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas Tech all-conference volleyball player Henley Hooks has been selected to participate in an upcoming Brazilian tour as part of the D2 USA National Volleyball Team. The international tour, which is organized and presented by USA Sports Tours and Events, is scheduled to take place May 11-21.
 
"I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to represent the USA team," reflects Hooks. "It means so much to me because I've worked so hard in a sport I love, and being recognized for that dedication is truly special. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I'm beyond grateful for the chance to be part of it."
 
A rising senior in the Golden Suns volleyball program, Hooks is one of 20 standout players from around DII that have been selected to be a part of this tour and represent USA. Those 20 players will be split into a pair of teams with 10 players on each team. The finalized roster and which team Hooks will be on will be released at a later date.
 
As part of the tour, Hooks and her teammates will play four matches against Brazilian competition comprised of professional and club teams. In addition to competing, the players will have the opportunity to experience educational, cultural, and social aspects of Brazilian life while on the tour.
 
"I am looking forward to all the beautiful sites that Rio has to offer," added Hooks. "I get to play at a higher level with other girls in our country that have worked so hard. I am super excited for all the friendships I might make a during this trip!"
 
This past season, Hooks had her best year as a Golden Sun on the court and earned First Team All-GAC honors after ranking in the top-10 in the conference in total kills (7^th), kills/set (4^th), total points (9^th) and points/set (9^th). Off the court and in the classroom, Hooks was a GAC Academic Honor Roll recipient as well as a CSC Academic All-District® honoree.
 
Donations to help fund Hooks' trip to Brazil are still being taken and can be made by check, made out directly to Henley Hooks or through cashapp: $henleyhooks