It is rare for dual-sport athletes to find their way onto a college court. It’s even more uncommon for those athletes to receive offers and scholarships to play both. USC Salkehatchie is doing just that with incoming 2023 freshman MiHailey Miles, a 6-foot, 1-inch volleyball and basketball athlete from Strom Thurmond High School in Johnston, South Carolina, where she is a two-sport standout for the Lady Rebels.

Hailey signed with USC Salkehatchie on Friday, April 28, 2023.

Coach Dani Aquino, the head women’s volleyball coach, and Coach George Dukes, the head women’s basketball coach, have both signed offers with Hailey to play in the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

“We are excited to bring Hailey into the Salk volleyball family,” Aquino said. “With her height and athleticism, we’re eager to see what she can do.”

Hailey comes from an athletic family.

“I have two aunts who were coaches and I remember going to their practices and playing with their teams when I was younger,” stated Hailey. “The love I developed in my spirit when I touch a volleyball, or a basketball just became something I knew I wanted to keep forever."

Hailey says she loves the intensity that comes with playing two sports. “I’m a very competitive athlete, so I love to 'turn up,'” she added.

Hailey has been described by her teammates as a competitive, diverse leader.

“I’m goofy and outgoing, but I know when it’s time to get serious,” commented Hailey.

The opportunity to play at the next level for USC Salkehatchie has Hailey excited.

“Having the opportunity to play two sports at Salk is a tremendous blessing,” stated Hailey. “It’s not every day you get the chance to go to the next level and play the sports you love while pursuing your academic goals.

“Being the first dual athlete at Salk and having this opportunity is something I’ll never take for granted,” she added.

Competing in two sports will be a challenge for Hailey.

“My plan is to 'lock in,' and learn to manage the time and resources I have,” stated Hailey.

Coach Aquino asks every athlete to set personal goals when they join her team. Hailey's goals are to bring home at least two championship rings and to make the Dean’s list.

Hailey Miles will be playing as a middle hitter/right side for Coach Aquino’s volleyball squad and as a center for the women’s basketball team.

Congratulations Hailey!

(Article/Photo: USC-Salkehatchie Athletics Department)