MOBILE, Ala. – Former University of South Alabama volleyball standout Mechell Daniel recently signed a professional contract with Oriveden Ponnistus (OrPo) of the European Volleyball Confederation in Orivesi, Finland.

She made her professional debut against Pieksamaki on Jan. 18, and helped OrPo to a 3-1 victory.

"I really like it," Daniel said. "It is a small town, and everyone is really friendly here. I like the people, the team and (coaching) staff. I am really excited to get time on the court and help make a difference."

Daniel, a four-time all-Sun Belt Conference honoree, two-time SBC Commissioner's List recipient and 2013 SBC Freshman of the Year, is the career leader at South Alabama in double-doubles (45) and total attempts (4444). She ranks second all-time in career kills (1511), sixth in kills per set (3.37) and seventh in digs (1037).

Daniel helped lead USA to the best SBC finish (T-2nd in East Division) in program history, and recorded the most wins by a Jaguar team since 1994. She also helped the Jags record the second-highest team attack percentage (.225) in the program's history.

For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com, and follow the Jaguars at www.twitter.com/USAJaguarSports. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).