University of South Carolina Upstate

Before USC Upstate: Earned four letters in volleyball at Belleville West... Was a member of the all-conference team three times... Finished fourth in the conference in kill average, third in blocks and second in service aces as a senior... Led Belleville West squads to the Illinois State tournament, taking third in 2004... Played on the Southwest Illinois Club team that went to nationals... Also played club volleyball for the Southern Heat and Team United... Also lettered for four years in basketball.

Personal: Born on July 16, 1988... Daughter of James and Kaaren Downey... Has a brother, Matt ... An elementary education major... Favorite food is stuffed-crust pizza... Favorite movie is "Juno"... Favorite TV show is "Family Guy"... Favorite actress is Rachel McAdams... Admires her parents... Faviorite season is Fall... Favorite singer is Lil Wayne... Dream job is to become a beach volleyball player... Favorite quote is "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"... Prior to joining the Spartan basketball team, Downey played four years of volleyball as a member of the Upstate volleyball squad.