CONWAY, Ark. – The Central Arkansas Sugar Bears wrapped up a fantastic fall signing day last week, signing three new Sugar Bears to the 2023 class. Now that the ink is dry, it's time to get to know the newest Sugar Bears.

Alex Newland

Alex Newland is a 5'11 outside hitter from Greenbrier HS in Greenbrier, Ark. During her time as a Panther, Newland amassed a great deal of awards and accomplishments both on and off the court. She completed Sports Medicine, Business, and Finance courses and is on track to graduate with honors. When it came to athletics at Greenbriar High School, Newland was a two-sport athlete. In volleyball, she earned honors like two-time All-Conference, All State, and two-time All-State Tournament Team. Newland also received a fair few awards for basketball as well, like three-time All-Conference, All-State, and All State Tournament Team. Off the court, Newland participated in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Sports Medicine Club.

Newland on why she chose UCA: "I chose UCA because when I went on my first visit it immediately felt like home. As soon as I stepped on campus, I could see the next 4 years of my life. The team feels and acts like a family which is exactly the type of program I want to be a part of!"

Coach John Newberry on Newland: "Keeping a Sugar Bear family at home makes Alex all the better. Alex is a local volleyball player with a high ceiling. Once Alex figures out the speed and physicality of the D1 level, other teams will struggle against her. She's a very determined and motivated individual."

Ella Drake

Ella Drake is a 5'10 outside hitter from Regent Prep HS in Broken Arrow, Okla. Drake was the MVP for the Rams in the 2022 season. She also earned an All-Conference award all four years. Drake was also selected to the Oklahoma Coaches Association All State and the OSSAA 4A All-Tournament Team in 2022. Drake now owns the Regent Prep ace and dig record and has over 2000 kills during her time there. Outside of volleyball, she was a member of the student council, Beta Club, and varsity tennis team.

Drake on her decision to join the Sugar Bears: "UCA was my first visit and it immediately felt like home from the way the players and coaches treated each other. I love the fun and competitive culture they have created. Plus, it is close to home!"

Newberry on Drake: "Ella is a great addition to our OH pedigree. She's a great 6 rotation player that adds tremendous depth to our roster. I love the fact that we have one of the top outside hitters from Oklahoma joining our team."

Greyson Button

Greyson Button is a 6'3 Middle Blocker from Grapevine HS in Grapevine, Texas. Academically, Button accrued awards like THSCA Academic All-State, Academic All District, and  AVCA Best and Brightest. On the court, Button was on the All-American, Phenom, and Prepdigs Watchlist. Button is the all-time block leader at Grapevine HS, and most importantly, was the Mustangs' captain. Off the court, Button was apart of NCL, yearbook club, and Younglife.

Button on signing with UCA: "I knew from the moment I stepped onto campus that it was meant for me. I was looking for a second home and found it at UCA. The culture and the people grabbed my attention to the point where I couldn't see myself anywhere else."

Newberry on Button: "I'm excited about having Greyson join us. She will add an immediate physical presence at the net. Her long physique and IQ as a middle blocker is exactly what we need to be at the top of the conference."

Newberry on the signing class as a whole: "I'm excited about the 23' signing class. This group of young ladies are comprised of great character, strong academics, and impressive athleticism."