CLEMSON, S.C. – Clemson Volleyball’s Adria Powell signed with the German Professional Team, Suhl. The club is located in Suhl, Germany and is a member of the 1st Division Bundesliga (league). A middle blocker/outside, Powell joins the VfB Suhl Lotto Thuringen after completing her collegiate career last fall with the Tigers. The team currently sits fifth in the Division, one spot ahead of VC Wiesbaden, the club Head Coach Jackie Simpson Kirr played her rookie season.
“I’ve dreamt of playing professional volleyball since I started playing the sport in sixth grade,” said Powell. “Signing my first contract means the absolute world to me, and I’m thankful for every up and down throughout the process. Not only was this a current dream, but I’m playing for my younger self and all the other young female athletes that are chasing this dream as well. This career allows me the opportunity to continue playing the sport I love while traveling the world and creating new experiences.
This season, I’m looking to adjust to this new lifestyle and learn the new style of play they use. I’m trying to take it one step at a time while enjoying this sometimes uncomfortable but priceless process. I’m forever grateful for all the coaches, teammates, friends and family members who got me to this point. Especially Jackie (Simpson Kirr), who really made this all possible and helped me achieve this dream. Go Tigers!”
Powell started all 33 matches for the Tigers in 2023. During the season, she contributed an 154 total blocks (33 solo, 121 assisted) to average 1.28 per set to lead the team and rank 30th in the country. Her 154 blocks were the most be a Tiger since Karis Watson (currently playing with the Atlanta Vibe) had 174 in 2014. The Hubbard, Ohio native, put up 365.5 points (3.05 per set) after finishing with 236 kills (1.97 per set) and serving 36 aces. The graduate transfer led the Tigers with a .301 hitting percentage and helped Clemson to the best RPI finish under Coach Simpson Kirr.
