Women of
the Halls of Fame
Female Volleyball Player
Birthdate: May 1, 1962
Hometown: Torrance, California
Year Inducted: 1998
Position: Blocker
Paula earned her B.S. in Physical Education at the University of Southern California, where she played one season of volleyball. During her experience with sports at the collegiate level, Paul earned the title of All-American as well as Outstanding Collegiate Player of the Year.
In 1979, Paula earned a silver medal at the United States Olympic Festival. In 1980, she received the prestigious title of Most Valuable Player and All-American at the U.S. Junior Olympics. Only four years later, she was part of the U.S. team that won silver at the Olympics. She was soon after recognized by the United States Olympic Committee as the Female Volleyball Athlete of the Year.
In 1986, she won bronze at the Good Will Games, and in the 1992 Olympic Games helped lead the U.S. team to bronze. She won gold at the 1995 World Grand Prix.
Paula went on to play professionally throughout Europe, South America, and the Far East. During her journey throughout these countries, she received their awards which were equivalent to the American version of Most Valuable Player.
Paula now lives in Irvine, California with her husband Karl and has served as the Assistant Head Coach for Univeristy of Southern California for seven years now.