Forsythe won’t return for last year

University of Hawaii volleyball coach Dave Shoji announced Friday that senior Alexis Forsythe will not play her final year. The team opened practice Tuesday and Forsythe had not participated.

The 6-foot-4 reserve middle blocker from California said in a statement, "My life has taken another journey. Playing volleyball at the University of Hawaii has been one of the greatest experiences I’ve had. My decision to leave was a personal one, and I wish the best for the girls and staff in this upcoming season."

Forsythe transferred in 2009 from Houston Baptist. Her absence leaves the Rainbow Wahine with five middles on their 19-player roster. That includes last year’s starters, second-team All-American Brittany Hewitt and 2010 Western Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year Emily Hartong. Sophomore Kristiana Tuaniga and freshman Kalei Adolpho, from Molokai, and Jade Vorster are also in the mix.

Shoji also said three-time All-American Kanani Danielson will be Hawaii’s captain this year.

The Wahine open Aug. 26 against San Francisco.