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Benson chosen to train with USA National Team coaching staff

Jan. 6, 2011

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Ashley Benson has been invited to spend the next three months training with the USA Women's Volleyball National team coaching staff; including head coach Hugh McCutcheon and assistant coach Karch Kiraly. Benson was one of 12 seniors, whom have exhausted their collegiate eligibility, to be selected for the 2011 Winter Training Block out in Anaheim, Calif.

Ashley Benson

Photo by Mike Dickbernd/IU Athletics

Ashley Benson (center) celebrates a score.

"This gives me a great opportunity to push myself and experience a higher level of volleyball," said Benson. "I'm excited to be trained by some of the best coaches in the country.

"It also gives me the chance to fulfill a dream of mine, playing in the Olympics. Being around the coaches every day and showing them what I have to offer is very exciting."

Benson's three-month trip out to Southern California, beginning Jan. 17, will include intense training sessions five days a week, taking place inside the American Sports Center in Anaheim. It serves as a chance to not only learn the techniques of the international game and possibly compete in Hong Kong, but also gets her name into the mix for the USA Women's National Team. Travel, lodging, equipment and most meal costs will all be paid for by USA Volleyball.

Benson will return to Bloomington for summer classes before completing her degree during the fall semester. She then plans to continue working with USA Volleyball or heading overseas to begin her professional career.