By Loren Miller, USU Eastern Sports Information:

PRICE – Utah State Eastern volleyball’s Mackenzie Carter has signed a letter of intent Tuesday to continue her playing career at Saint Martin’s University.

Carter, a two-year starter at outside hitter, will finish her last two years of eligibility at the NCAA Division II program located in Lacey, Washington.

She chose to sign Saint Martin’s because of the coaching staff and location.

“I really liked the coach and his approach to volleyball. The campus is beautiful and when I visited I could see myself loving it here. I overall just felt like it was the best choice for me,” said Carter.

In her two seasons for the Eagles, Carter played in 52 matches and helped the Eagles to back to back 17-win seasons including appearances in the NJCAA Top 20 National Poll.

As a freshmen she scored 149 kills, 183 digs, and 33 service aces.

During her sophomore year in 2018 she earned first-team All-Region XVIII honors after putting up 347 kills, 283 digs, and 27 service aces.

USU Eastern Head Coach Danielle Jensen says that Carter was a big part of her program being on the rise the past two seasons.

“We are so excited and proud of Mackenzie. She has been a huge reason for the success of our program for the past two years. We have loved having her here and have loved watching her grow,” said Jensen.

Carter says that playing for Jensen and the Eagles was an important to her development as a volleyball player and helped prepare for the next level.

“Playing at USU Eastern and in this conference definitely prepared me for this next step.The tough competition taught me a lot and helped me to get better. I’m so grateful Coach Jensen gave me the opportunity to play on this team,” said Carter.

Carter will graduate from USU Eastern in April and transfer to Saint Martin’s in August to prepare for the 2019 season.

The Las Vegas native plans to pursue a degree in social work.