ESSEX, England -- Near the eastern coast of England and two hours northeast of London, former Towson University women's volleyball standout Annie Ertz will continue both her educational and athletic career at the University of Essex.

Ertz, who graduated this past spring with a degree in education, signed this summer to play with the Essex Blades volleyball club. While at the University of Essex, Ertz will pursue a master's degree in history.

"I am super excited to goto England to pursue a master's degree," said Ertz. "It's truly the best of both worlds, being able to study abroad while continuing to play the sport I love."

The Elm Grove, Wisconsin native played in 121 matches during her time with the Tigers, helping Towson to the 2019 Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) title and the program's first-ever NCAA Tournament win. Ertz saw the court in 394 matches, putting down 829 kills, including a career-best 273 during her senior campaign. The outside hitter scored 122 service aces with the Black & Gold, including 44 across her final two seasons.

On the defensive end, Ertz graduated with 191 total blockers on her ledger, including 26 solo efforts. She had a career year in 2019, logging 71 total blocks. Ertz posted 875 digs, averaging a career-best 2.41 per set in 2019.