WASHINGTON (WUSA 9) -- Erika Pritchard loves art and science and might study them in college. She hopes volleyball will get her there.
"My academics are good, but I think that my volleyball is what drives me to get a scholarship in," said Erika.
The 10th grader from Middletown High School is one of the top volleyball players in the country.
She and the rest of her Metro American Volleyball Club teammates are preparing to play in one of the top three volleyball tournaments in the country.
Upwards of 150 scouts and coaches from all over will be watching her at the Capitol Hill Classic in D.C. this weekend.
Husband and wife team Bonnie and Barry Goldberg started the three day event nine years ago.
"My wife and I are amazed at where its come to," said Barry.
The tournament has grown from 100 to 900 teams
"It's not just for the elite number one player in the country, a lot of Division III schools looking for good students that can play volleyball and play a role on the team," said Barry.
Kelly McCCaddin played in the tournament for four years and that's where American University volleyball Coach Goldberg first saw the now senior. She knows the tourneys value for high school girls.
"I would say college coaches notice the little things too, not just how good of a volleyball player you are. You can be the best player on your team, but if you're not a good teammate, it shows," said Kelly.
Besides the potential scholarships and fun to be had, Barry and Bonnie want to grow the sport of volleyball in a football, baseball, basketball world.
