Oct. 16, 2008

When Rubena Sukaj's mother won the United States Green Card Lottery in 2004, the American University volleyball program hit the jackpot.

Since Sukaj joined American's roster, the Eagles have won three consecutive Patriot League titles and berths to the NCAA tournament. And as AU begins the final half of the 2008 season, the 6-foot-1 outside hitter could help the Eagles advance past the first round of the tournament for the first time in the program's history. All this thanks to Zana Sukaj winning the right to move to the U.S. with husband Qemal and daughter Rubena from their home in Tirana, Albania, after particpating in the lottery for the second time.

Every year, 50,000 applicants, their spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 receive a chance to earn permanent residence in the U.S. through the computerized Green Card Lottery system. Four years ago, the lottery's timing could not have been better for then-17-year-old Rubena, who had just graduated from Asim Vokshi High School, and for AU coach Barry Goldberg, who was more than willing to take a chance on signing his fourth Albanian player since 1996.

Rubena, a member of the Albanian women's national team, always had hoped to study abroad, most likely in Europe. But when her family won its green card, attending college in the U.S. became a dream come true.

For the complete article by Dave Reed of ESPN.com click here