CSU Notebook: Ex-Northside star joins CSU volleyball team

Former Northside volleyball player Kendall Smith has joined the Columbus State team.

Smith, a member of the Ledger-Enquirer’s All-Bi-City team, helped Northside to 31 wins and a berth in the Class 5A state tournament.

Smith finished with 353 digs, 90 kills and 46 aces.

“I’m thrilled that Kendall decided to be a part of the Lady Cougar program,” CSU coach Casey Cornett said in a news release. “It’s great to have another local high school product on the roster and her personality will fit well with both our returning and incoming players.”

CSU hires Middlebrooks as an assistant softball coach

Columbus State has hired Lacey Middlebrooks as an assistant softball coach.

Her primary responsibility will be to work with the CSU pitchers.

“After a thorough search, I believe we have found the right coach in Lacey,” CSU head softball coach Brad Huskisson said in a news release. “She brings experience as a high-level player, coaching experience and a new level of energy for not only our pitchers, but for the entire team as well.

“I can’t wait for her to get started working with our team.”

Middlebrooks worked the past two seasons at Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Okla.

“I’m so excited to join the CSU family and start working with Coach Huskisson and the team,” Middlebrooks said. “I look forward to competing and continuing the tradition of success in the softball program and at Columbus State University.”

Middlebrooks played at Minnesota and Tulsa. She won more than 60 games in her four-year career.

Mike McClellan signs with San Rafael Pacifics

Former Columbus State first baseman Mike McClellan has signed with the San Rafael Pacifics of the Pacific Association of Professional Baseball Clubs.

McClellan finished his career with a CSU best .385 batting average and 48 home runs, which was second best all-time.

Last season, McClellan finished with a .418 average with 18 homers and 71 RBIs.

“We are really happy for Mike,” CSU coach Greg Appleton said in a news release. “Mike worked extremely hard during his time at Columbus State and he has earned this opportunity to continue playing.

“We wish him the best of luck and we will be watching from Columbus.”

This story was originally published July 20, 2016 at 2:23 PM with the headline "CSU Notebook: Ex-Northside star joins CSU volleyball team."