GREENEVILLE, Tenn. --- Tusculum University alumnae Tatum Thornton has been named the spirit squad graduate assistant coach, announced director of spirit programs Jessica Inscore.
Thornton was a middle blocker for the Pioneer women's volleyball team. The Ovilla, Texas native was a force at the net over the past two seasons, collecting 142 total blocks (0.87 per set). In 49 matches and 164 sets, Thornton also compiled 220 kills on a .224 hitting percentage, 38 digs, six assists, and three service aces. She earned South Atlantic Conference Player of the Week honors just ahead of the conference tournament and two Zaxby's Athlete of the Week during the 2019 season.
Thornton is in the TU record book for single-match hitting percentage between 10-14 attempts. She finished with 10 kills on 13 swings and no errors for a .769 clip, tying her for second.
"I am excited to have Tatum joining our staff," said Inscore. "She has an impressive athletic background and brings a wealth of young knowledge and fresh ideas to help our spirit program flourish. Tatum has always been a wonderful student-athlete and I look forward to having her help lead our spirit teams in the right direction on the sideline, the mats, the classrooms, and life."
Prior to Tusculum, Thornton spent two seasons at Palm Beach State College. She was twice named to the All-Conference second team for her performance at the Lake Worth, Florida junior college. Thornton played in 53 matches, totaling 242 kills and 159 blocks. Her 1.1 blocks per set average in 2017 was enough for 27th in the NJCAA and her hitting percentage of .311 was 38th nationally in 2016.
At Life High School in Waxahachie, Texas, Thornton spent her time as a tri-sport athlete. She was a three-time first team All-District selection in volleyball. On the track, Thornton was a three-time regional qualifier, twice the Sprinter of the Year, and a 2016 state qualifier. As a cheerleader, the two-time captain collected four UCA All-American and one NCA All-American laurels.
"I am very excited for this coaching opportunity and amazing experience," said Thornton. "I have always wanted to coach and get hands-on experience because I enjoy being a part of something great! When Coach Inscore reached out to me for this position, I knew that it was a sign from God to follow my dreams. I believe with teamwork and positivity, the possibilities are endless and we will be able to achieve many things."
Outside of athletics, Thornton has worked during her summer breaks, primarily in customer service positions. She has also been a part of many community projects, including Toys for Tots and Feeding South Florida. Thornton recently completed a community prevention project for sexual violence and prevention at TU. She created a new pathway and module for individuals to learn about prevention and ways to deal with sexual assault at Tusculum.
Thornton graduated from TU in May 2020 with a bachelor of arts in behavioral psychology.
"Being an athlete at Tusculum was a great experience because I had coaches who cared about their athletes' success," continued Thornton. "Now, I have the opportunity to do the same. Tusculum provides a friendly and welcoming environment and that's what makes me even more excited to be a part of this team/family. This position will allow me to share my skills and ideas and be able to become a more developed person overall. For that, I am very grateful."
