Lindsay Simmons (front center) signed her letter of intent to play volleyball at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. On hand for the signing were (front) her father, Alan; coach Spencer Cole; (back) mother, Cindy; and grandparents, Malcomb and Bettye Meals. Simmons was selected to the all-state first team the last three years. Her sister, Lauren, played for the Lady Hawks and also went on to play in college. | Randy Garrison

Lindsay Simmons has always been driven to succeed at Danville, both in the classroom and on the volleyball court.

“The drive that she has is just amazing,” said Danville volleyball coach Spencer Cole. “She’s a hard worker and probably one of the most versatile players I’ve ever coached at Danville.”

Last week, Simmons became the first Danville volleyball player to play with a Division 1 school when she signed her letter of intent to play for the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

The Danville senior finished her high school career last fall, helping the Lady Hawks make five state tournaments and win two county titles, two regional championships and five area titles.

For her career, she collected 2,532 kills, 322 blocks, 354 aces, 610 digs and 74 assists. This season, she had 871 kills, 86 blocks, 98 aces, 273 digs and 28 assists.

Simmons said she considered other schools but felt UAB was the right fit for her.

“I want to go into the medical field and UAB is a great medical school,” Simmons said. “It’s a big step in my life and I feel like if I didn’t strive for the highest goal, then I would regret not giving it a try.”

Cole said her versatility is something that will help her compete at the college level.

“Although she’s an outside hitter, she has the ability to play just about any position,” Cole said. “In fact, she’s been one of our most consistent service receivers. She’s obviously got what they’re looking for at UAB.”