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Coaches

Cleveland Volleyball Company: Coaches

The Cleveland Volleyball Company is proud of our outstanding staff! Our staff includes former and current college coaches, some of the area's most successful high school coaches, all the way thru to very talented collegiate players. CVC was founded in 1989 and is one of the oldest clubs in Ohio. Several of our coaches have been on staff for much of that time.

Our staff for the 2024 season consists of the following highly qualified and experienced coaches:


Beth Welch

Coach: CVC 10 Black (2024)

* Played High School Volleyball at St. Joseph Academy (1996 - 2000) and College Volleyball at Youngstown State University (2000-2004)

* Coached CYO (2005 - current) Coached JO for the past 6 years  

Beth is married to her husband Steve and lives in Westlake with her family. She has three daughters Stella (12 years old), Lucy (11 years old) and Mae (9 years old). She works full time as a nurse and enjoys spending her free time watching her girls play multiple sports.

Jen Shouse

Coach: CVC 10 Blue (2024)

Playing Experience:

High School: Elyria - 1st team All-Conference, 1st team All-County, 1st team All-District

College: Slippery Rock University - All-conference (2002, 2003), 2x All-Region (2002, 2003), Honorable Mention All-American (2003).

* Coaching Experience:  16 years as Varsity head coach, Avon Lake (2006-2007), Midview (2008-2014), Elyria (2015-2022), 7th grade Elyria Middle School (2023).

JO Experience: Previous Clubs: Southwest (2005-2010). Director of Pioneer Volleyball Club (developmental club for Elyria athletes, 2017-current), CVC: 2022-current.

Married to TJ Shouse (14 years), son Alex (12), and daughter Kaylee (9). I was born on New Year’s Day!

Kelly Mahon

Coach: CVC 10 Silver (2024)

* Played 4 years of Division I volleyball at Xavier University from 2006 - 2010. Two-time All Atlantic 10 Conference athlete, 2009 Atlantic 10 Student-Athlete of the Year, and 2007 NCAA Tournament participant. Elyria Sports Hall of Fame Inductee and Played for Cleveland Sports Hall of Fame coach Carol Russo at Elyria High. 

* 2022 Head Coach Bay Middle School 7th Grade Volleyball Team (undefeated season and tournament champions). 2021 St. Raphael's 6th grade CYO volleyball Head Coach (undefeated and tournament champions). 2020 5th/6th grade Bay Middle School rec volleyball coach.

 

Kelly and her husband, Terence, moved back to Cleveland from Cincinnati in 2017 and have two young daughters, Addison (age 7) and Taylor (age 4). Kelly started her volleyball club career at CVC when she was just 9 years old and also finished her club volleyball career at CVC on the 18 black team!

 

Lisa Evans

Coach: CVC 10 White (2024)  

* Coaching Experience:  Lisa has over 30 years of coaching experience with 8 to14 year old athletes in Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) and USA Volleyball. Lisa’s teams also annually participated in the Ohio Games. Lisa’s teams were recognized as medal winners in both CYO, USA Volleyball and Ohio Games. Lisa has also served as the Girls Athletic Director and a member of the Sports Committee at St. Jude’s in Elyria. Lisa’s primary focus is on teaching the fundamentals of volleyball that will in turn, make for a lasting love of the sport of volleyball.

Lisa lives In North Ridgeville with her husband Tom and enjoys spending time watching her granddaughter play for CVC.

Michelle Kaczay

Asst. Coach:  CVC 10 White (2024)

*Playing Experience:   She played both club and high school volleyball and was also a member of the varsity swim and cross country teams.  

*Coaching Experience:  Michelle has coached CYO Volleyball at St. Jude in Elyria from 2006 to present. This is Michelle’s 3rd year on the coaching staff at CVC! 

Michelle lives in North Ridgeville with her husband and daughter, Kennedy.  She is a physical education teacher at Lake Ridge Academy.  Michelle loves volleyball and enjoys watching young athletes develop both athletically and personally.

Annie Jackson

Coach: CVC 10 Red (2023)

* Playing Experience:  I played volleyball at Walsh Jesuit High School. I also played junior olympic volleyball at Maverick and several years with Cleveland Volleyball Company.

* Coaching Experience:  This will be my first year coaching!

I am a mom of three and a registered nurse at the Cleveland Clinic. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling.


ERIN GARDNER

Coach:  CVC 10 Developmental Stars

Playing Experience: CVC from 9 years old to 18 years old! 

Avon High School: 2014-2018 First Team All-District/First Team All-County/Lorain County Miss Volleyball, Kent State University: 2018-2022 All-MAC Freshman Team/Academic All-MAC/3rd in School Record for Career Digs

Coaching Experience: This is my second year coaching JO! I have done private lessons for 4 years as well as coached a variety of camps during my time at Kent State. I am excited to be back at CVC!

Fun Fact: My full-time job is with the Cleveland Cavaliers!


KRISTIN CLARK

Coach:  CVC 10 Developmental Stripes

Playing experience: Volleyball 4 years (1996-2000) Softball (1996-1999) at Strongsville High School 

Coaching experience: Over 15 years of coaching experience from the middle school to high school level. 
*North Royalton High School (Freshmen Coach, Assistant Varsity) 
*Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School (Freshmen Coach) 
*Olentangy Liberty Middle School (Head Coach - 7th Grade) 
*Olentangy High School (Freshmen Coach, Junior Varsity Coach, Assistant Varsity)
*Shaker Heights Middle School (Head Coach- 7th/8th Grade)

Kristin lives in Avon Lake with her husband, Fritz, and twin daughters, Ellie and Avery. She works as a Curriculum Coordinator for Lakewood City Schools. Kristin loves playing and coaching volleyball, especially watching her players grow as athletes and people! Looking forward to a great season! 

KATE VERHOFF

Coach:  CVC 11 Black (2024)

Playing Experience- Elyria Sports Hall Of Fame Inductee-2023 for both Volleyball and Basketball.  Kate played College at University of South Florida (Volleyball), Kent State (Basketball)

Club Experience:  CVC Alum (8 years) as a setter!  5x National Qualifying Teams!

High School Experience:  - Kate played High School Varsity Volleyball for Coach Carol Russo at Elyria High School from 2001-2005.  1st team Lorain County, Conference and District all 4 years.  POY District x3, Conference x3, Plain Dealer Seven County x1.  2nd Team All-Ohio x2.  1st Team All-Ohio x1.  North South All-Ohio All-Star Game Selection.  Lorain County Miss Volleyball.

Coaching Experience:  Club- 10yrs plus:  CVC and Oiler Attack at various levels. 2010-2011 University of Findlay Women's Volleyball Assistant.  Personal Volleyball Trainer- 10yrs plus

Lisa Medvetz

Assistant Coach: CVC 11 Black (2024)

* Elyria Sports Hall of Fame Inductee 2016
* College: Indiana State University (Basketball), 4 year starter and scholar-athlete
* Club Playing Experience: Cleveland Volleyball Company (6yrs)- setter, qualified for   Nationals 3x during club years at CVC
* High School Experience: Elyria High- outside hitter, 4yr starter, 1st Team All-Lorain County (3yrs), POY Lorain County (2 yrs), 1st Team Lake Erie League (3yrs), Lake Erie League MVP (SR year), 1st Team All-District (2yrs), POY All District (2yrs), 1st All Ohio (2yrs), POY All Ohio (SR year), Miss Volleyball 2002.   

* Coaching Career:  2nd year at CVC; CYO Head Coach at St. Jude (2021-present) ;  Lake Ridge 8th Gr. Head Coach (2012-2020); Varsity Assistant/JV Coach at Keystone (2021)  

l live in LaGrange with my husband and 2 kids (Josie and James). I am a PE teacher at Lake Ridge Academy. I love sports and enjoy coaching athletes of all ages. I have 3 sisters who all played club volleyball at CVC during their volleyball careers. Volleyball and basketball were both passions of mine growing up. I was given the opportunity to play at the D1 level in both sports, but choose to continue on with basketball at Indiana State University on a full ride.

Morgan Gaines

Assistant Coach: CVC 11 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  HS at Elyria Catholic

* Coaching Experience:  Elyria Catholic Varsity Assistant, Junior Varsity, and Freshman (2005-2008), Avon Varsity Assistant and Junior Varsity (2008-2011), Avon 7th Grade (2014- present), CYO coach Holy Trinity (2021-present), CVC sprouts coach (3 years), CVC 10 National, 14 National, 15 National coach (7 seasons)

I live in North Ridgeville with my husband and two daughters, Peyton (11) and Emory (7). I am in my 17th year teaching first grade for Avon Local Schools. It is a dream come true to be able to coach my daughter while representing Cleveland Volleyball Company.

Becky Schmotzer

Coach: CVC 11 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Fairview High School (1992-1996) State Runner up 1994; CVC

* Coaching Experience:  Avon Rec 3 & 4 grade girls; TNVA 10s Assistant Coach 2022; CYO Holy Trinity 4th grade girls (present); CVC Coach (2 years)

My husband Mike and I have lived in Avon for 15 yrs and have 2 daughter Anaiah (10) and Hannah (8); We love all thing sports which keeps us busy throughout the year. We love spending time with family and friends and enjoy traveling when time permits.

Maggie Vetrovsky

Assistant Coach: CVC 11 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  HS: North Olmsted HS; JO:  SWVC during high school;  Adult women’s (indoor and sand) and adult co-ed (indoor and sand)

* Coaching Experience:  2nd year at CVC!

My husband Scott and I have two children (Maverick and Sydney). My stepson Maverick is 11 years old and our daughter Sydney is 7 months. We live in North Olmsted close to all our family. If we’re not watching Maverick play sports Scott and I play volleyball and coed football for fun. I currently play indoor and sand volleyball for both women and coed teams. Volleyball has always been my favorite sport.

Mike Metera

Assistant Coach:  CVC 11 Blue (2024)

WHITNEY DEJOHN

Coach:  CVC 11 Silver (2024)

*Grew up in Colorado Springs- played for Match Point VBC.  Played in HS and at Stephen F. Austin.  Currently plays in adult rec leagues.

*Coaching Career: 
-Coaches 3-5th grade girls for Elyria Rec.  
-Ran multiple summer skills clinics for 3-8th grade
-Referee for co-ed teams

STEPHANIE REICHERT

Assistant Coach:  CVC 11 Silver (2024)

* Playing Experience: 1992-Mentor High School, 1993-1996-Amherst Steele High School with JO playing experience, 1997-1999 Baldwin-Wallace College

* Coaching Experience: 1999-2000 Baldwin Wallace College Student Assistant Coach, 2002 Rocky River High School Junior Varsity Coach, 2003-2005 Rocky River High School Varsity Coach, 2003 Plain Dealer Coach of the Year, 2006-2008 Avon High School Varsity Coach, 2003-2006; 07-08; 09-10 Junior Olympic Coach 17U, 15U, & 12U   2016-2023 Avon Middle School 8th Grade Coach, 2020-2022 TNVA Coach 11R, 12A, 13N.  Current Avon Assistant Varsity Coach.  CVC Coach:  2 years

My family includes my husband Brad, son Braden (18), daughters Averie (15) and Caryn (10) along with 3 rescue dogs, Lucy, Molly & Archie. Fun Fact: I love to be an

Paige Benson

Assistant Coach:  CVC 11 Silver (2024)

ANDREA DEMRO

Coach:  CVC 11 White (2024)

*Playing Experience:  Played volleyball for Padua High School.  Currently plays co-ed sand doubles and 4s. 

*Coaching Experience:  Westlake Recreation Volleyball  for 6 seasons 

 I am a nurse,  have 2 children,  and I coach my son's travel basketball team as well as coaching my daughter in volleyball.

ALEX LABOY

Coach:  11 Red (2024)

*Playing Experience:  
Played 4 years of Division I volleyball at Bowling Green State University from 2020-2023. A two-time MAC regular season champion, two-time MAC tournament champion, and two-time NCAA participant. Graduated from Avon High School with 4 conference championships (2017-2020).  Started playing volleyball at age 7 with CVC and went all the way to 18s with them as well (11 years). I started as a 6 rotation outside and later transitioned to Libero.

Coaching Experience:  This will be my first year coaching and I’m excited to get started!


GABBY LABOY

COACH:  CVC 11 Red (2024):

Playing Experience: Played Volleyball at Avon High School. I played at CVC for four years.

Coaching Experience: 7th Grade volleyball at Westlake for two years and coached freshman volleyball at St. Joseph Academy and then assisted freshman this year. 

 

 

 

 


Angela Watkins

Coach: CVC 12 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  South High School [Volleyball, Basketball, Track] All-Senate Team and Team MVP for both sports; College [Volleyball & Basketball] O.J.C.A.C All-Conference in both sports; Adult Co-Ed League (Sandusky, OH)

* Coaching Experience:  21 Years Coaching Experience - Sandusky St Mary High School Head Varsity Volleyball Coach (2002); Shaker Heights High School Head JV Coach (2005); Cleveland Central Catholic Head JV Coach (2006); Cleveland Central Catholic Head JV Coach (2007); Cleveland Heights High School Varsity Assistant Coach (2013); Cleveland Heights High School Varsity Head Coach (2015); Euclid High School Head Varsity Coach (2019); Shaker Heights Middle School Co Head 7th and 8th Grade (Current); Cleveland Volleyball Company youth coach (2018 - Current)

I have 3 daughters who played college volleyball.  I'm an OHSAA official (currently line judge for college games too)! I like to run a FAMILY NCAA playoff volleyball bracket (winner receives $100)!

​​​​​​​Victor Watkins

Assistant Coach: 12 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  No Volleyball Playing Experience ONLY Basketball

* Coaching Experience:  Shaker Heights Middle School {Co-Head Coach 7th & 8th Grade} [Current] / Cleveland Volleyball Company {Youth Coach} [Current] - 15 Years Basketball Coaching Experience

My entire family coaches volleyball.  All the girls in my family play(ed) volleyball (wife Angela - Daughters Kiara, Valisha, & Allonda and even my granddaughter).  My fun facts: I love to cook! AND I have a twin brother!

Brooke Bader

Coach: CVC 12 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Elyria High (1st Team All-Ohio), Bucknell University (1st Team All-Patriot League)

* Coaching Experience:  Hearts for Jesus, Avon Rec, TNVA 10s, CVC 2 years!

I am married with 4 kids and am an optometrist. My husband and I enjoy playing sand volleyball.

AMANDA THURN

Assistant Coach:  CVC 12 Blue (2024)

Playing Experience:  CVC player starting at 8 years old! Finished playing on the 18 black team.   4 year varsity starter at Elyria High School (2005-2009). Earned First team all-district, Second team All-Ohio, Lorain County Miss Volleyball, First team all-county, Lorain County Player of the Year and conference Player of the Year honors.   Went on to play 4 years at Cleveland State University   (2009-2012) earning First team all-league honors. 

Coaching Experience:  Began coaching at CVC in 2013.  CVC coaching experience: 11 National, 11 Blue, 13 Red, 16 Blue, 16 Black, 17 Black, 18 Black. Has taken 7 teams to Nationals. 

Amanda and her husband (Aric) live in Lagrange with their dog, Frank.

Nikki Loeser

Coach: CVC 12 Navy (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Played high school at Magnificat and Avon HS; Capital University; currently plays in various adult leagues.

* Coaching Experience:  Brookside Middle School - 2 years; TNVA 10-14's - 4 years; CVC- 2 years; Individual and Group Lessons

I live in Avon Lake with my family.  I work full time as a social worker and spend my free time playing volleyball and watching my son play sports!

Alexandra Barbee

Coach: CVC 12 Navy (2024)

* Playing Experience: 6 years Junior Olympic 

* Coaching Experience: 2017-Present: Junior Olympic Coach; 2017: 10's at Spirit; 2018:  Langston Middle School Coach; 2018-2022:  JO Coach at TNVA; 2019-2020:  Coach at CVC- 2 years:  MS Coach at Brookside

TIM KNAPP

Coach:  CVC 12 Royal (2024)

Playing experience:  Have played on various adult indoor and sand volleyball leagues.

Coaching experience:  Over 20 years of experience coaching JO and community volleyball, NSA fastpitch softball and baseball.

I have been married to my lovely wife Heidi for 34 years and we have 2 daughters, Abby and Alexis who were both JO volleyball players.  I also have 4 grandchildren and one on the way.  Emma, our only granddaughter currently plays for CVC.

 

ABBY KLUN

Assistant Coach:  CVC  12 Royal (2024)

ALEXIS WHITE

Assistant Coach:  CVC 12 Royal (2024)

Playing Experience- 10 years of JO as a setter and defensive specialist

Coaching- various rec leagues as assistant coach 

JACKI BORCZIAK

Coach:  CVC 12 Grey (2024)

Playing experience: Played for Keystone in 2000-04; Spirit VBC 5 seasons; currently play year round women and coed sand and hard court.

Coaching experience: Freshman volleyball at Keystone (1yr); Spirit VBC (4yrs)

I’m married with two kids. I own my own salon, I’m a singer, an athlete and I love to travel!

AMELIA EASTIN

Assistant Coach:  CVC 12 Grey

Playing Experience:  Played 4 years HS (Amherst Comets), 6 years Club, 4 years D2 Collegiate (Edinboro University).  Currently plays in various adult leagues both indoor and sand.

Coaching Experience:  Coached Varsity (Logan Elm) and Freshman (Midview) teams.  

LAUREN DIFRANCO

Coach:  CVC 12 Red (2024)

Playing experience:   Solon High School: State Final 4 in 2000.  Ohio Northern University: Elite 8 in 2004

Coaching experience:  2 years coaching middle school: Garfield Heights Middle School and Solon Middle School. 

I am an art teacher and live in North Ridgeville with my husband and 3 kids. 

MELISSA EICHENLAUB

Asst. Coach:  CVC 12 Red (2024)

* Playing Experience:  I played volleyball for St. Jude School in Elyria from 1994-1997 and then continued playing at Elyria High School from 1998-2002. I also played JO Volleyball at Cleveland Volleyball Company from 1995-1997 and North Central.

* Coaching Experience:  This will be my 1st year coaching!

I am a busy full-time working wife and mom to 2 daughters Reagan, who is a competitive rock climber & volleyball player and Brooklyn, who loves ballet lessons & playing soccer for travel & club teams.  In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family!


ANDREW WOODWARD

Coach:  CVC 13 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Ohio Northern University (2007-2013) * 6-year starting Setter * 4-year Team Captain * Two 3rd-place finishes at Nationals * All-American Honors * 2nd Team (2008, 2009) * Honorable Mention (2012) * GMMVC Honorable Mention (2009) * GMMVC 1st Team (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013) * GMMVC Best Setter Award (2010, 2011, 2012) * GMMVC Most Valuable Player (2011, 2012) * ONU Career Leader in: * Games Played * Assists * Solo Blocks and Block Assists * Vanguard Volleyball Club (2006-2007) * Westerville North High School * 2-year Team Captain * OCC First Team All-Conference (2007) * Honorable Mention All-Region

* Coaching Experience:  CVC Coach (13s-17s age groups) since 2014 * 7 time National Qualifier * St. Joseph Academy Varsity Assistant Coach (2016-2021) * Independence High School Varsity Assistant Coach (2014-2015) * Ada High School Varsity Head Coach (2012) * Ada 7th/8th Grade Coach (2011)

My wife Kristi and I are both pharmacists.  We have 3 year old twin boys (Nolan and Bennett). We have two dogs, Iggy (English Mastiff) and Zeke (Bernese Mountain Dog).


MADDY JERDONEK

Assistant Coach:  CVC 13 Black (2024)

Playing experience: Avon High School (2015-2018)- All Ohio 2nd team, 2x all-district, 3x all-conference. CVC (2009-2019)- National Champion (13 National), 7x national championship qualifier. College: Fairfield University (2019-2022)- 2x MAAC Champion, 2x NCAA Championship appearance

Coaching experience: This will be my first year coaching at CVC and I am so excited to give back to the club, coaches and players!

​​​​​​​Hallie Zumack

Coach: CVC 13 Blue (2024)

* Playing Career:  I started playing when I was 9 and played through all 4 years of college.

* Coaching Career:  2nd year at CVC!

A fun fact about me is that I have an adorable orange & white kitty whose name is Cotie!

Dayna Denner​​​​​​​

Assistant Coach: CVC 13 Blue (2024)

*  High School (2012-2016);  I played D1 college softball at the University of Toledo

*Second year coaching at CVC!

Valisha Watkins

Coach: CVC 13 Silver (2024)

* Playing Experience:  

* Coaching Experience:  

 

Ava Haddix

Assistant Coach:  CVC 13 Silver (2024)

Playing Experience:  Played at Amherst HS and Ursuline College

Coaching Experience:  First season at CVC

Sydney Adamson​​​​​​​

Coach: CVC 13 Royal  (2024)

* Playing Experience: MS & HS - 5yrs

* Coaching Experience: 

  • 2 seasons as a D1 high school coach (Euclid High School and Shaker Hts. High School)
  • 2 seasons as a Beachwood Middle School coach - Finished 2nd in the Chagrin Valley Conference 2022. Promoted to Head Coach 2023. 
  • Assistant Coach for John Hay Men’s Volleyball first ever season - Spring 2023
  • Coached 3 seasons at CVC, 13 Royal will be my 10th team overall. I’m so excited to get started!

SYDNEY STONE

Coach:  CVC 13 Grey (2024)

Playing Experience:
*Played for CVC for 9 years, 4 year varsity starter at Avon High School (3 conference championships).  
*Two years of D1 at LaSalle University, 3 years of D2 at East Stroudsburg University (2 NCAA and I NIVC appearances)

Coaching Experience:
First Year coaching club!  I am excited to be back at CVC!!

LEXI SCHMIDT

Coach:  CVC 13 Red (2024)

Playing Experience:

  • Westlake High School
  • Quicksilver Volleyball Club
  • Maverick Volleyball Club
  • Juniata College

Coaching Experience:

  • Head Coach, Lee Burneson Middle School
  • Head Coach, 14s Quicksilver VBC
  • VolleyExpress Summer Camps
  • Penn State Men’s Volleyball Summer Camps

LEAH SCHMIDT

Assistant Coach:  CVC 13 Red (2024)

Playing Experience:
*Outside Hitter 2019-2021 at The University of Utah
*Outside Hitter and Team Captain 2021-2022 at UC Berkeley
*Qualified for the NCAA tournament 2 seasons in a row (2019, 2021)
*Sweet 16 appearance in 2019


​​​​​​​Stephanie Whitney

Coach: CVC 14 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  HS: St Joseph Academy; College:  John Carroll University

* Coaching Experience:  2012-2014 Fairview Middle School; 2014-2018 Fairview HS; 2019-present St Joseph Academy; Cleveland Volleyball Company 2017-present (11s, 15-18s national)

Husband: Chris Whitney. Children: Evelyn and Gwen Whitney. If we are not working, we are most likely driving a kid to a practice/game.

HANNAH MINNICH

Assistant Coach:  CVC 14 Black (2024)

Playing experience: 
*Played varsity volleyball at Fairview high school  2014-2018
*CVC for 4 years 

Coaching experience: 
*Coached at Fairview high school for 3 years. This will be my first time coaching club! 

I currently play sand volleyball and hope to play indoor soon! I am excited to be apart of CVC again! 

Afshan Siddiqui

Coach: CVC 14 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  I started volleyball as a toddler, played CYO throughout middle school as well as started JO club teams when I was 12. The first club I ever played for was CVC. I played JO until I graduated high school. I played my first year at Ohio State's Regional campus and I continue to play 5-6 days a week in adult leagues.

*Coaching Experience:  I started coaching camps and clinics at AVC when I was 15. When I moved to Columbus for college, I coached for Buckeye Volleyball Club.  2022: Maverick 12 Elite's team.  2023-present:  CVC Coach

I am first generation born in America. My mom is from Peru, my dad is from India, and my grandfather was from Sicily. I grew up with a mixture of all those cultures. I also am very involved in CrossFit and have trained in CrossFit for almost 7 years.

Amanda Coleman

Assistant Coach:  CVC 14 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  I have played for the last 5 years on co-ed and women’s rec volleyball teams

* Coaching Experience:  I coached for 3 years for the Elyria Parks and Rec. I have organized instructional open gyms for younger athletes.  In 2022 I coached 12’s for TNVA.  I began coaching with CVC in 2023 (15 Blue).

I love all sports. I am a huge Cleveland sports fan. I enjoy being outdoors and staying active. I also love watching my daughter play volleyball and do what she loves. Coaching has brought so much fun and joy to me because I get to see these kids grow and love the game as much as I do!

Khaliah Watts

Coach:  CVC 14 Silver (2024)

* Playing Experience: Played at Shaker Heights High School and Cleveland State University    

* Coaching Experience:  4 yrs. as an assistant coach; 14 yrs as a head coach (with a combination of both High School and Club); 3 yrs as an assistant college coach for John Carroll University.      

I have 2 daughters ages 9 and 11. They both play volleyball and love the sport. The youngest is overwhelmingly outgoing and the oldest is a recluse. They are both perfect versions of their parents. I can't wait to see the wonderful things life has in store for them and of course the volleyball athletes they will become!

Luis Valdez Jr.

Assistant Coach: CVC 14 Silver (2024)

* Playing Experience:  has played volleyball since 1998.

* Coaching Experience: 2015 at St Martin de Porres High School- head coach and assistant coach for various years. I was also the head coach for St Columbkille since 2018 and still am the current head coach.  CVC Coach:  2021-present (12-14's)

I have 3 young daughters for which two of them have grown to love the game of volleyball. When I am not coaching and have free time, I enjoy playing softball.

Lexi Schmidt

Coach:  CVC 14 Royal (2024)

Playing Experience:

  • Westlake High School
  • Quicksilver Volleyball Club
  • Maverick Volleyball Club
  • Juniata College

Coaching Experience:

  • Head Coach, Lee Burneson Middle School
  • Head Coach, 14s Quicksilver VBC
  • VolleyExpress Summer Camps
  • Penn State Men’s Volleyball Summer Camps

LEAH SCHMIDT

Asst. Coach:  14 Royal (2024)

Playing Experience:
*Outside Hitter 2019-2021 at The University of Utah
*Outside Hitter and Team Captain 2021-2022 at UC Berkeley
*Qualified for the NCAA tournament 2 seasons in a row (2019, 2021)
*Sweet 16 appearance in 2019
*USA Collegiate National Team tryout (2022)
*CVC Alumni

SHANEICE JAMES

Coach: CVC 14 Grey (2024)

Playing Experience: Beachwood High School (4yr starter); JO- Maverick VBC; full-ride to Tennessee Tech (2015-2018)  and started all 4 seasons; 2015 NCAA finalists, Nominated for Freshman Athlete of the Year.

Coaching Experience:  TNVA- Asst 12s coach; Ursuline College assistant; Current Head Varsity Coach at Beachwood HS.

Earned Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science.


WHY I COACH – Volleyball has shaped my life. This sport has taught me discipline, communication, teamwork, and so much more. Coaching allows me to continue to learn and grow as an individual while sharing the knowledge I have about the
sport.  Volleyball is the reason I am who I am today and has shaped my whole world. I want to be a part of that same inspiration that I received from my coaches.


Erion Gibson

Coach:  CVC 14 Red (2024)

Playing Experience
-4 years of varsity at Beachwood High School 
-Second team all-conference 2018
-First team all-conference 2019
-Offensive player of the year 2019
- 21-2 record senior year. Best record in school history, cvc and sectional champs. 
-Played volleyball from 7-12th grade and also played JO all of those years

Coaching Experience
-First year JV and Varsity assistant coach 2022
-First year coaching at CVC 2022

I'm a Senior at CSU. Majoring in General business and professional sales. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving , I love to sing even though I don't know how and I have a white poodle maltese named Stanley!

Ron Gasper

Coach: CVC 15 Black (2024) 

* Playing Experience:  Adult Open and AA leagues/ tournaments

* Coaching Experience:  11th year at CVC, prior clubs include Southwest and AdVance. I also have coaching experience at Fairview High School, Olmsted Falls High and Middle Schools, and Cleveland State University  (2 Horizon League titles). I am currently at St Joseph Academy (5yrs).

I have two dogs Jamesson and Guinness., a wonderful daughter (Nora), and the best wife in the world!

Lindsey Tout

Assistant Coach:  CVC 15 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  North Royalton High School (2014-2017) 2x MVP, 2x Suburban League 1st team, All Ohio honorable mention. CVC (2014-2018)- 5x national championship qualifier; College:  Cleveland State University (2018-2022)- 2 year starting libero, 2021 team captain, 2022 Mrs. Viking award, and 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year nominee!

* Coaching Experience:  I have coached many camps over the past 5 years at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. CVC Coach:  2nd year

I recently graduated with a biology degree and am currently taking a gap year before applying to medical school!

Jessica Kosiewicz

Coach: CVC 15 Blue (2024)

Jessica has been playing volleyball for over 35 years. She was a 3 year starter at Tiffin University where she received honors for All-Mid Ohio as well as All-American Mideast Conference. Jessica currently holds the record for most career assists and sets played. She was nominated for Tiffin University's Hall of Fame. Jessica and her husband John continue to play competitive volleyball today.

Jessica has been coaching for volleyball for 16+ years. Including: 2 Years - High School / 10 Years CYO winning 3 City Championships / 11 years JO - 9 years with CVC coaching 13-15's national teams. 

Jessica and her husband John have a dog Lucy :)

John Kosiewicz

Assistant Coach: CVC 15 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience:  High School, beach doubles

* Coaching Experience:  8 years CYO, 3 City Championships, 10 Years Club–9 years with CVC (6 years National Level)

I coach with my wife Jessica.  We love our dog Lucy and like to travel.

Stephanie Reichert

Coach: CVC 15 Silver (2024)

* Playing Experience: 1992-Mentor High School, 1993-1996-Amherst Steele High School with JO playing experience, 1997-1999 Baldwin-Wallace College

* Coaching Experience: 1999-2000 Baldwin Wallace College Student Assistant Coach, 2002 Rocky River High School Junior Varsity Coach, 2003-2005 Rocky River High School Varsity Coach, 2003 Plain Dealer Coach of the Year, 2006-2008 Avon High School Varsity Coach, 2003-2006; 07-08; 09-10 Junior Olympic Coach 17U, 15U, & 12U   2016-2023 Avon Middle School 8th Grade Coach, 2020-2022 TNVA Coach 11R, 12A, 13N.  Current Avon Assistant Varsity Coach.  CVC Coach:  2 years

My family includes my husband Brad, son Braden (18), daughters Averie (15) and Caryn (10) along with 3 rescue dogs, Lucy, Molly & Archie. Fun Fact: I love to be any place by the water!

LEAH SCHMIDT

Assistant Coach: CVC 15 Silver (2024)

Playing Experience:
*Outside Hitter 2019-2021 at The University of Utah
*Outside Hitter and Team Captain 2021-2022 at UC Berkeley
*Qualified for the NCAA tournament 2 seasons in a row (2019, 2021)
*Sweet 16 appearance in 2019
*USA Collegiate National Team tryout (2022)
*CVC Alumni

 

Matt Darnell

Coach: CVC 15 Royal  (2024)

* Playing Experience:  26 years of playing competitively indoor and sand

* Coaching Experience: Began coaching club in 2011 for advance Volleyball club, moved to Spirit and then over to CVC where I coached until 2018. Tried other clubs for a few years including Southwest where I finished # 3 in the OVR as a 15 Elite coach.

I am a father of 3 daughters so I understand the ups and downs that teenage athletes deal with!

 

Anna Coughlin

Coach: CVC 15 Grey (2024)

* Playing Experience: HS - 4 years, John Carroll Varsity - 4 years, playing in adult leagues since I've graduated

* Coaching Experience:  13R @ NEO, 16A @ Tandem, Varsity @ Valley Forge High School

My parents are Brian and Melanie Coughlin. Brian, Kelly, and Danny Coughlin are my uncles and are the reason that I started playing volleyball in the first place. Volleyball is a huge part of my family and how we really connect. Fun Fact: My favorite animal is an ostrich.

 


Kristen Benjamin

Coach: CVC 15 Red (2024)

*Playing Experience:
HS: Kent Roosevelt High School 2018-2021(Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field)  

College: Thiel College 2001-2005 Soccer, Basketball, Track & Field. 

*Coaching Experience
CVC from 2014- Present 

Head Coach at Northeast Ohio College Preparatory Varsity Volleyball.

 

2003 Graduate of The Ohio Fire Academy Reynoldsburg, Ohio National Certification.
2015- Present : Accel Schools Cleveland College Preparatory School Math Teacher.

   I love to travel with my family and make new memories when we can! I have been married for 6 years to my awesome Wife, Hilary, and have two amazing sons, Jack and Liam!

Kiara Watkins

Coach:  CVC 16 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  4 years of high school, 4 years of college at Bluefield State University-WVIAC Honorable Mention, holds record for my most digs recorded in a match (31)

Coaching Experience:  10 years coaching high school- Cleveland Heights, Beachwood, Euclid, Shaker Heights 5 years coaching with CVC.My sisters and parents coach for CVC and my daughter Kennedy currently plays for CVC!

Allonda Watkins

Assistant Coach:  CVC 16 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Beachwood High School (2014-2018) 1st Team All Chagrin Valley Conference, Second Team All District; JO: CVC 13-18 Black; College: Wheeling University (2018-2022) MEC All-Second Team, MEC All Freshman Team, MEC Honorable Mention, MEC Offensive Player of the Week

* Coaching Experience:  2nd Year at CVC!I have two sisters who played college volleyball, and both of my parents coach 12 Black! Fun fact about me: I've have 5 surgeries from injuries and still continued to play.

Rachel Tolbert

Coach: CVC 16 Blue (2024)

* Playing Experience: HS: Saint Joseph Academy 2007-2010; College: Wheeling Jesuit University 2011-2014. WVIAC/MEC champions 2011-2014; Atlantic Region Champions 2011-2014; NCAA National Championship 2011-2014

* Coaching Experience:  Olmsted Falls High School Freshman 2015-2019; Olmsted Falls High School JV 2020-2022; Cleveland Volleyball Company National Coach 2015-2024; Current Assistant Coach at Ursuline College.

I have a husband named Alex. We got married in 2020 after 10 years of dating! We have two dogs, Finn and Knox! We love the all things Cleveland Sports, especially the Browns! I’m insanely obsessed with Giraffes! This is my first year as a collegiate coach!

Lexi Lombardo

Assistant Coach:  CVC 16 Blue  (2024)

* Playing Experience: 6 years college volleyball - All-conference each year

* Coaching Experience:  2nd year at CVC!  Many satellite camps next to Kevin Foeman at Ashland University

I am the only girl out of four kids, my mom loves volleyball just as much as me and loves to be the team mom, I was the oldest college volleyball player (24) at some point!

Angela Dunn

 Coach:  CVC 16 Royal (2024)

* Playing Experience: Fairview High School 2014-2017 (3 year varsity); Lorain County Community College 2017-2019 (5th place at nationals, 4th in NJCAA for digs); Baldwin Wallace University 2019-2021 (reached over 1,000 career digs and 100 career aces, 5th in OAC for aces)

* Coaching Experience:  TNVA 2019-2022; CVC 2023-present

I recently learned to water ski!

Allyson Donovan

Coach: CVC 16 Grey (2024)

* Playing Experience:  13 years playing, 2 years college club volleyball, 6 years school, and sand leagues  

* Coaching Experience:  CYO 12Us, 2 years middle school coach, 3 years club 13U and 16U, 3 years high school volleyball freshman and JV.      

I just recently got married!  My husband and I have a boxer.  I absolutely love playing and coaching volleyball– it doesn’t even l feel like a job! I am a math teacher at Avon High School and also the freshman volleyball coach there.  I graduated from Bowling Green State University.  A fun fact about me is that I can say the alphabet backwards!


Sherry Martin

Coach: CVC 17 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  4yr varsity starter, Medina HS (All-County, Akron Beacon Journal MVP, Best Female Athlete); 3 sport athlete & team captain–10 varsity letters; Medina HS Hall of Fame; College- Malone University (6 rotation outside hitter), ranked 5th in the nation NAIA(All-District & All Conference, GOAC Academic All-American 2yrs); Adult- USA Volleyball and Beach player, several USAV Indoor National Championships, multiple beach championships (women & co-ed)

* Coaching Experience:  HS- Trinity HS Varsity Coach 2yrs, Medina HS Varsity Coach 5yrs, Bay Village Varsity Coach 6yrs; JO- 17 time National Qualifier & 11 Top 10 finishes!  CVC coach for 32 years- 15’s through 18’s.  2015- 18 Black Open Silver Medalist, 2009- 17 Black National Champions, 2007- 17 Black 4th Place, 2019- 16 Black 5th Place; many private lessons and clinics!

I take pride in developing female athletes and future women in leadership by being a strong, positive role-model and mentor. Not only do we focus on growing as an athlete but also on developing the life skills needed for success off the volleyball court.

Katie Stansbury

Assistant Coach: CVC 17 Black (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Padua Franciscan high school- 2x all Ohio selection, varsity starter all 4 years, all time kills leader at Padua, State Champion in 2013, State Final 4 in 2014; JO- played for CVC for 9 years (10 black-18 black), qualified for open at nationals every year, 14 open national champs in 2011, 18 open national runner up in 2015, top 3 finishes in open qualifiers every year; College- 4 year starting outside hitter/libero for Colgate University, 2018 Patriot League All-Tournament team, Academic Honor Roll 4yrs.

* Coaching Experience: 2021- Padua JV coach, assistant varsity coach; 2022-Present CVC 14-18 National Coach, Oberlin College volleyball assistant.

I love being active! I teach spin classes and will also be getting my personal training certification. I love being outside including hiking with my dog!

Sydney McKay

Coach:  CVC 17 Blue  (2024)

* Playing Experience: CYO, high school, JO for Quicksilver

* Coaching Experience:  CVC 2015-present. Regional team for 2 years. Finished in the top 10. National coach for 5 years. Magnificat HS freshman and JV coach for 3 years.

I love Disney, music, and sports! I’m currently an assistant principal.

Aaliyah Slappy

Assistant Coach:  CVC 17 Blue  (2024)

* Playing Experience:  High School- 4yr varsity starter at Centennial HS; Club- Elite Volleyball Training Center; College - Cleveland State University 2x Horizon League Champion 2 NCAA Tournament appearances

* Coaching Experience:  7 yrs coaching JO-12’s 16’s/17 American. 15 Blue, and 2 years of coaching CVC Black teams.  

I truly love the sport of volleyball and enjoy sharing the love of the game and developing athletes. I am also a huge foodie! I love to travel solely so I can taste and eat different types of food all over. My life goal is to have a meal with Chef Gordan Ramsey :)

McKenna Turton

Coach: CVC 17 Royal (2024)

* Playing Experience: HS: Firelands HS 2014-17 (3yr letter-winner, 2nd Team All-District, 2x All-Conference, career record holder); 6yrs of JO volleyball; College: 2018-2021 Cleveland St Club Volleyball

* Coaching Experience:  Advance VBC 2020; Lake Ridge JV 2020.; Firelands HS Volunteer Asst 2021; TNVA 2021-22; CVC Coach 2023-present.

I am a dog mom to a 4-year old Australian Shepherd named Koda!


Essance Andrews

Assistant Coach: CVC 17 Grey (2024)

* Playing Experience:  Shaker Heights HS 2014-2018; Central state University 2018-2020

* Coaching Experience:  CVC Coach: 3+ years (13-17's)

I love to wear crocs in the winter!

Monica Standring

Coach: CVC 18 Black  (2024)

* Playing Experience: Drexel University Division 1 full scholarship athlete, 4yr starting middle blocker, North Athletic Conference 1st Team; Rocky River HS, 4 year varsity starter, 1st Team All- Ohio, 1st Team District 2, 1st Team Southwestern Conference, Plain Dealer Player of the Week, Rocky River Athletic Hall of Fame, RRHS Most Kills in a Match 31 kills; CVC player 16s, 17s, 18s 

* Coaching Experience:  CVC coach 1997-present, 2023:  17 Black (National Qualifier), 2022: 14 Black coach , 2021: 14 Black (Bid Tournament Champs & competed in National Division of Juniors in Las Vegas), 16 Black - 10 Black coach nationals qualifier New Orleans; Rocky River HS Head Coach 1997-2003 2x regional finalist, 2x district champ, Southwestern Conf. Coach of the Year, District 2 Coach of the Year, State All Star Coach; 2017-2019 Magnificat Assistant Varsity Coach; 2020: Learwood 8th grade coach (undefeated season and conference champs); La Salle University Assistant Coach Division 1 Athletic 10 Conference

I have 2 kids, Braeden 19 and Makenna 17. I love my English Cream golden retriever, Cali.

Brigid Chambers

Assistant Coach:  CVC 18 Black  (2024)

* Playing Experience: HS: 3 Year Varsity Starting Setter at Magnificat High School, Earned First Team All Ohio, District 2 Player of the Year, Plain Dealer 7 County Player of the Year; JO: Played for CVC from 1991-1995 and qualified for Nationals in ‘94 and ‘95.  3 Year Starting Setter on 18 Black; College: Earned a full ride to Furman University, 3 year Starting Setter, All Southern Conference First Team as a Senior and Second Team as a Junior, Academic All Conference Team, 2 time team MVP

* Coaching Experience:  Cleveland Volleyball Company Coach (10 Black, 11 Black, 14s, 17-18 Black), Magnificat High School Varsity Head Coach and Varsity Assistant (1999-2005, 2017-2019), St. Angela Merici CYO Coach (2014-2019)

My husband and I have three children. I am a teacher, love working with kids, and I am a big Cleveland sports fan.

McKenna Turton

Coach: CVC 18 Red (2024)

* Playing Experience: HS: Firelands HS 2014-17 (3yr letter-winner, 2nd Team All-District, 2x All-Conference, career record holder); 6yrs of JO volleyball; College: 2018-2021 Cleveland St Club Volleyball

* Coaching Experience:  Advance VBC 2020; Lake Ridge JV 2020.; Firelands HS Volunteer Asst 2021; TNVA 2021-22; CVC Coach 2023-present.

I am a dog mom to a 4-year old Australian Shepherd named Koda!

Angela Dunn

 Coach:  CVC 18 Red (2024)

* Playing Experience: Fairview High School 2014-2017 (3 year varsity); Lorain County Community College 2017-2019 (5th place at nationals, 4th in NJCAA for digs); Baldwin Wallace University 2019-2021 (reached over 1,000 career digs and 100 career aces, 5th in OAC for aces)

* Coaching Experience:  TNVA 2019-2022; CVC 2023-present

I recently learned to water ski!