7
FRESHMAN | 2023-24: Did not play.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Lakewood High School, where she excelled academically and athletically… high school team won the Moore League in 2019, 2021 and 2022 and she was named to the Principal’s Honor Roll all four years… started on the varsity team as a freshman and was named a scholar-athlete in 2019 and an all-league plater… named a team captain in 2021, earning first team all-league and again was named a scholar-athlete… was given the Captain’s Award and the MVP High School Award, and was named to the Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream Team First Team.
PERSONAL: Birthday is March 29… born in Harbor City, California… parents are Taion DaCoud and Christina Somera… has three siblings: JT, Syd and Shea… intends to major in psychology at UNM.
Coach Newman-Gonchar on DaCoud: Samarah is an incredible athlete with a great 6 rotation skill set, from one of the richest volleyball hot beds in the country. Her ability to set herself apart in a very strong class of outside hitters from southern California is what fires us up most to have her bring her all-around skills and powerful arm to the 505.
Why UNM: It was volleyball that lead me to UNM, and it was witnessing firsthand an amazing group of young women that were so welcoming and a coaching staff that was extremely supportive. I knew the moment I stood at the whiteboard with Coach Jon that this is where I wanted to win championships and play. Diversity was one of the most important things for me in selecting a program that I would be proud to represent and play for, and I loved how diverse UNM’s program was. Plus, I really enjoy the desert vibe, and it wasn’t too far away from home.