Two 49ers to Train With U.S. Volleyball

Two players from the Long Beach State women’s volleyball team have been selected to train with the USA Women’s National Team this spring, the school announced Friday.

Sophomore Benishe Dillard, a 6-foot-2 middle blocker, and junior Jenn Snyder, a 6-2 outside hitter, were among 20 players selected from the 87 who tried out last weekend for Coach Mick Haley.

Dillard will start training May 15 in Colorado Springs, Colo., in preparation for the 2000 Olympics. Snyder will be considered for the team that will compete in the 1997 World University Games in Sicily from Aug. 19-31.

Dillard, from Kent, Wash., led the 49ers (33-3 last season) in total blocks (148). Snyder, from Glendale, Ariz., was the team’s kill leader with 469. Both were All-Big West Conference selections; Snyder on the first team and Dillard on the second.

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Robyn Mattingly, a 6-foot middle blocker from Mesa, Ariz., has signed with Long Beach State to play volleyball, 49er Coach Brian Gimmilaro said. Long Beach graduates only one player from last year’s team, which advanced to the NCAA Central Regional.

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The Angels will be welcomed back to Orange County with a luncheon sponsored by the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce March 31 at the Anaheim Marriott.

Reception starts at 11 a.m. with lunch starting at 11:30. Players, coaches and team officials are expected to attend.

Tickets are $40. For more information, call (714) 758-0222.

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Single-game tickets for the Piranhas of the Arena Football League go on sale today. The team begins play April 19 with an exhibition against Texas at the Pond.

Prices are $7-$39.50. for more information, call (714) 740-2000.