Can you share your coaching philosophy and experience?
My coaching philosophy is teaching skills required on the court, as well as implementing skills needed off the court.
How did you get started in volleyball coaching?
I quit volleyball during my sophomore year of college due to a bad coaching experience and realized I still lived the game and wanted to pass my knowledge on to others.
What inspired you to coach at Cal Sports Academy?
During my time doing individual lessons I was lucky enough to meet Corey who offered me a spot to coach at Cal.
Coaching Style and Strategies
What’s your approach to teaching volleyball fundamentals?
I start with the basics such as volleyball rules and how the game works, then move into teaching individual skills such as passing, then serving, then hitting then game play.
How do you motivate players to improve?
I motivate my players by making them redo their mistakes until they get it right – to show them they are capable of doing it.
What strategies do you use to prepare teams for competition?
I do a lot of games involving a condition punishment for them to do if they do not win.
Player Development
How do you assess player strengths and weaknesses?
I assess players’ strengths and weaknesses by starting at simple skill work and increasing the level until I see what needs to be worked on.
What drills and exercises do you use for skill development?
I use a lot of individual work such as ball control and form.
How do you foster teamwork and communication?
I enjoy team bonding games that make them work together and talk.
Game-Day Preparation
How do you prepare your team for matches?
I prepare them by explaining the types of meals they should eat the night before and day off as well as proper sleep and motivating them.
What’s your approach to in-game adjustments?
A player who is struggling will be pulled out and given a chance to reset on the bunch and given another chance to go back in.
How do you manage player substitutions and rotations?
The players who are giving effort and commutation and hustle will play over players who show less commitment.
Cal Sports Academy Specific
What drew you to Cal Sports Academy?
I was fortunate enough to meet Corey during a private lesson I was giving who introduced me to Cal.
How do you incorporate academy values into your coaching?
I find teamwork the most important value and emphasize team bonding and team drills each practice.
What goals do you have for the volleyball program?
The goals I have are for my players to be a better player and person compared to when they first started.
What advice would you offer to anyone wanting to play volleyball?
I would advise getting involved in as many camps and clinics possible as well as practicing reps at home.
What changes would you like to see in the game of volleyball?
I would like to see Coed teams.
Fun Questions
Favorite volleyball memory?
Winning the PCL game my Senior year.
Most influential coach or mentor?
Amy Paule
Advice for young volleyball players?
Be the loudest one in the gym.