CEDAR CITY, Utah - Each week through the offseason the Leavitt Group will highlight a student-athlete from Southern Utah University that has made a positive impact on their program and the institution. This week's Student-Athlete Spotlight is focused on T-Bird volleyball senior Mckenzie Dowell. 

Dowell joined the Thunderbirds ahead of the 2017 season, and immediately earned a sizable role on the team. As a freshman she appeared in 86 sets and accounted for 88 kills. She also had a huge year on the defensive side, picking up 101 digs and ending the season with 46 blocks. In total, she scored 119 points as a freshman. 

As she moved into her sophomore season, she continued to be a major factor for SUU. In 73 set appearances she tallied 113 kills, improving on her freshman number. Despite her improved offensive numbers, she still had a strong season defensively as well, finishing the year with 39 digs and 20 blocks. 

This past season, Dowell made appearances in 27 matches and 84 sets, racking up 112 points for SUU. She finished the year with 65 kills, 14 service aces, 61 blocks and 32 digs. 

This upcoming season, Dowell will be a senior for the Thunderbirds. 

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