As Lindsay Anderson walked into Rec Hall on Friday night, memories of her storied career at Penn State came flooding back.

She came back to State College to cheer on her alma mater and celebrate her status as a professional volleyball player in the inaugural year of the new women's United States Professional Volleyball League.

"I have great memories from my years at Penn State," said Anderson, who played outside hitter for Penn State from 1994-98.

"This is such a great school to play for and the support I received from the school and fans was simnply amazing."

Anderson also praised her former coach, Russ Rose, for his dedication and hard work to the team. She said he aided in her preparation for the professional level.

"He (Rose) made me the best I could be," Anderson said. "Coach Rose is an incredible coach and person."

This year will mark a new level in Anderson's volleyball career. In November, the first-ever women's professional volleyball league will open its doors.

The league will include four teams: Chicago, Grand Rapids, Mich., Rochester, Minn., and St. Louis. Over the next several years, the league will gradually expand across the nation.

The league was founded by Bill Kennedy, the father of a former Wisconsin volleyball player, to give female players an opportunity to continue playing after college.

"I am most grateful to be given the opportunity to continue my volleyball career in the professional league," Anderson said. "It is amazing that I'm being paid to play the sport I love."

During her career at Penn State, Anderson achieved many milestones.

She was named All-American in 1998 and finished her four years with 669 kills, 706 digs, 280 blocks and a .262 hitting percentage.

"I can't say enough about playing for Penn State. Nothing can replace my time there," Anderson said.

Anderson praised this year's team for their talent and hard work. Friday's game was the first time Anderson has seen the current team in action.

"I was impressed. However, I wasn't surprised at all because Penn State has a great tradition," Anderson said.

Anderson has had the opportunity to play with some of the players on the current team including Nadia Edwards, Amanda Rome and Katie Schumacher.

In addition, she hails from the same hometown as Hilary Sexton, Crystal Lake, Ill.

"Lindsay and the others she graduated with set a great example for us as freshmen," Edwards said.