Ella Burd Makes History at Lakeland Prep with NCAA Division I Volleyball Commitment

In a moment that will be etched into Lakeland Preparatory School’s history, senior Ella Burd officially signed her Grant-In-Aid Agreement (formerly known as National Letter of Intent) to play NCAA Division I volleyball at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. The signing ceremony, held in the LPHS auditorium lobby on November 12, 2025, marked a milestone not only for Ella but for the entire Lakeland Prep community.  She is the first student-athlete in the school’s history to earn, receive, and commit to a full collegiate athletic scholarship.

A Trailblazer in Lakeland Prep’s First Graduating Class

As a member of Lakeland Prep’s 2026 inaugural graduating class, Ella’s achievement sets a powerful precedent. Her journey from a novice player entering her 8^th grade academic year, to a nationally recognized Libero in just over four years is nothing short of extraordinary. With a 4.34 weighted GPA and a resume stacked with accolades, Ella exemplifies the blend of academic excellence and athletic grit that Lakeland Prep strives to cultivate.

Athletic Achievements That Speak Volumes

Ella’s volleyball career is a testament to rapid growth, relentless work ethic, trusting the process, and elite performance.  A sample of some of her achievements on the court:

• 4-year Letterman for LPHS Varsity Volleyball
• Team Captain for both LPHS and her Memphis Metro 17.1 team (2025)
• Under Armour All-American Next Camp Select (2024 & 2025)
• AVCA All-American Watchlist (2025)
• TSSAA District 14AA MVP (2025)
• TSSAA District 14AA District Tourney MVP (2024)
• Over 1,200 career digs, including 479 digs in the 2025 season, ranking top 10 in Tennessee and #2 in TSSAA Class 1AA
• 5.8 digs/set in 2025, ranking #2 in Tennessee and #1 in TSSAA Class 1AA
• 4-time District Champion, 2022 Regional Champion, and Defensive Player of the Year every season since 2022

Family Reflections

Ella’s parents, Michael and Julie Burd, take great pride in their daughter taking this monumental step. “Ella’s journey has been fueled by faith, discipline, and heart,” said Michael Burd. “To see her earn a Division I scholarship in just four years of playing is incredible. She’s shown what’s possible when you trust the developmental process and commit fully to your goals.” Julie Burd added, “We’re so proud of Ella, not just for her athletic success, but for the grace, determination, and leadership she brings to every team and into the classroom. UNCG is getting a remarkable young woman of character.”

Volleyball is one of the fastest-growing female sports in U.S. history. Only 3.9% of the approximately 500,000 girls that participate in high school volleyball go on to play at the NCAA level. Only 1.2% will play at the NCAA Division 1 level.  While exact numbers vary, estimates suggest that over 1 million girls participate in youth volleyball programs nationwide through clubs and recreational leagues.

Ella’s Decision

When asked why she chose UNCG, Ella told Lakeland Currents: “From the moment I connected with the coaches and visited campus, I knew UNCG was the right fit. The program’s culture, the academic support, and the opportunity to grow into the best version of me and as a Libero at the Division I level, it all aligned with my goals. I’m excited to represent Lakeland and make an impact in Greensboro.”

A Community Celebration

The signing ceremony featured remarks from LSS and LPS leadership, Superintendent Dr. Ted Horrell and Principal Mrs. Corrie Martin, as well as remarks from LPHS Volleyball Coach Jenny Kiesel, all of whom praised Ella’s leadership, humility, and tenacity. Dr. Horrell highlighted the significance of this first for the LSS and LPS stating, “What this proves is that if you have the talent, and you put in the work, and you have supporting teammates, a family that’s willing to help you get there, as well as coaches, administrators, and a community that take athletic seriously, then achieving something like this is possible. We appreciate and are proud of you Ella for showing us you can achieve that dream.”  In her remarks, Ella expressed her sincere gratitude to the many people in her life who’ve supported and helped her throughout her journey, particularly her family but also all her coaches, teachers, and teammates, from both LPS and her club travel organization, Memphis Metro Volleyball.

Light refreshments followed as teammates, friends, and family gathered to celebrate a moment that will inspire future generations of Lakeland Prep student-athletes.

 

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