Mistakes are a part of volleyball. There would be no game without them. The most important part is to learn and grow from those mistakes, move on and not dwell on them.

I coach so I can be someone for someone—someone who cares, influences, and supports. I accomplish this by being authentically present, building trust and connection in safe environments, and committing to growth together by ‘trusting the process’. I promise to be an engaged, positive role model that helps others empower themselves and build lifelong confidence—on and off the court.

As a coach, I strive to foster a positive, safe environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth, ensuring every athlete feels supported and valued. I aim to help develop the whole athlete, concentrating on their physical, mental, and emotional growth, through focusing on progress, overcoming setbacks, and building confidence. I aspire to promote the development of skills that can be used throughout life, not just on the court.

I strive to prepare athletes to play at the highest level that they can and reach their full potential as both a volleyball player, and as a young adult. Preparing athletes to compete at the post-secondary level and beyond is my top goal to help the sport flourish and grow in popularity at every level. This is completed through scaffolded learning which begins with the youngest age groups learning the fundamental skills that will prepare the athletes to grow throughout their careers off a strong foundation. The later age groups must take these fundamental skills and refine them, whilst adding the psychological fortitude, and mental flexibility that volleyball requires. Statistics can tell us a lot about how our players are performing, however they do not tell the full story. The objectivity of statistics takes away a significant amount of subjective choice and bias that coaches may have. Lastly, there is no reason to cut down, berate, or harass your teammates, coaches, parents, or officials in the pursuit of excellence, and actions of such are not tolerated in my gym. .

As a volleyball coach, my philosophy centers on fostering a positive, supportive environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the court. I believe that every player deserves a space where they feel comfortable, valued, and confident to grow. This begins with creating an environment of trust and respect, where athletes feel encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them without fear of judgment. I am committed to teaching and reinforcing proper technique, understanding that a solid foundation is key to long-term success and injury prevention. Every drill, every play, is an opportunity to refine skills and build the muscle memory necessary to excel across all levels of volleyball. Remaining positive, even in challenging moments, is crucial to building mental resilience and maintaining a strong team dynamic. My goal is to instill a mindset in my athletes that focuses on progress, not perfection, where effort and attitude are just as important as results. Ultimately, my approach to coaching is about empowering athletes to take ownership of their development, fostering a love for the game, and teaching lessons that extend beyond the court. Volleyball is not just about winning games—it’s about creating well-rounded, confident individuals who are prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.

Constantly evolve. Although you may think you know the best way to coach, you must be willing to observe, listen, and change based on what is around you. Be adaptable in your approaches to planning, execution, and training. Similarly, as an athlete, you must be willing to learn, change, and adapt to the needs of your team, your coach, and the environment you are currently in.

Assist and encourage players in building skills, having fun and reaching their individual and team goals in volleyball.

I am still so new to the coaching world, so I feel as though I am still learning what my personal philosophy that guides me really is. What I do know, is that I believe in leading by example, and encouraging both the successes of your athletes and the mistakes. Not to dwell on the failures, but be brave enough to look them in the eye and learn from them. No player is perfect, and that’s more than okay. You just have to be willing to try. I think that’s something I’ve come to love the most about coaching so far – being able to watch athletes go for it even if they make a mistake, then try again anyways. I truly believe its the best thing you can do in order to get better, and seeing that improvement come over time is always so rewarding. It’s cliche, but there really is no “i” in the word team, and for me, helping others instill that comradely and sportsmanship is just as important as solidifying skills. Yes its volleyball, but its also so much more than that. Its communication, problem solving, teamwork, things that shape young lives on and off the court. At the end of the day, its about improving and reaching new goals together. Athletes, and coaches, can always learn more and share with each other, and I’m excited to continue to do so with LVC.

I’ve been involved in sports my whole life, with a background that includes playing rugby at the provincial level and competing in track and field as a thrower for Western University. Beyond my own athletic career, I grew up surrounded by sports – spending countless weekends on the sidelines cheering on my brothers in football and developing a lifelong love of competition and teamwork. My passion for coaching really began after becoming a grade ⅞ teacher. Working for Thames Valley, I have had the chance to coach different school sports throughout the year – most often basketball and volleyball and it’s been so rewarding to watch students grow as athletes and teammates. This season, I’m looking forward to expanding my horizons with club coaching and continuing to learn how to best support athletes in their development. As a new coach, I bring plenty of enthusiasm, energy, and positivity to the court. I believe sports are about more than just skill – they’re about building confidence, learning to work together, and most importantly, finding joy in the game. Consider me your ultimate hype woman both on and off the court. I can’t wait to get started!

As a volleyball coach, I have been told I am firm and funny. I want the girls to thrive both on and off the court. I believe competitive sports offer numerous benefits for girls, encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being. Participating in sports improves physical health, boosts self esteem and confidence, develops strong life skills like teamwork and resilience. These experiences can also positively impact academic achievement and future life opportunities.

We want to get better every time we’re together in the gym. The coaches and players should be learning and working together to reach a common goal: be the best TEAM we can be. Everything we do is for the benefit of the team. Win or lose, we will compete hard, play fair, and respect ourselves, our opponents, and the referee.

Coach Michelle is a passionate and dedicated volleyball coach who prioritizes creating a safe learning environment to help young female athletes grow their skills and love for the game while embracing failure and mistakes as learning opportunities to grow and build their resilience both on and off the court. As a working mom of three teenage daughters, she understands the value of teamwork, perseverance, and personal development and strives to ignite these life skills within her athletes.

As a coach, my philosophy is centered on fostering a growth mindset, both on and off the court. I believe that the essence of sports goes beyond just the physical game—it’s about building character, resilience, teamwork, and confidence. My approach emphasizes personalized development, where each athlete is empowered to reach their fullest potential. I encourage players to embrace challenges, be relentless in their pursuit of excellence, and work collaboratively with their teammates to achieve common goals. My ultimate aim is to not only develop skilled players but also well-rounded individuals who are equipped for success both in sports and in life.

I believe in guided self-discovery. I think athletes need to be given (and shown) the tools to be successful and afforded enough opportunity to refine skills through a high volume of reps. I believe in positive team culture, love for the game and a tight adherence to team systems.

Growth and Improvement comes with being uncomfortable. I believe that in how we choose to improve, whether in life skills, or any profession we pursue. We have to stay in a form of unrest, and uneasiness while still being passionate in what we love. Being stagnant and comfortable with where we are, we won’t be able to move forward in pursuit of what we desire. Volleyball at all levels, and all ages. We find ourselves competitive in one way or another. The constant battle of success and failure. We always want to do better day by day. At the same time I hope to contribute to a positive culture and love for volleyball itself. Coaching is where I find my way of passing on my love for the sport.

Volleyball for life!

Create an atmosphere rooted in trust, where athletes feel secure in making mistakes and exploring new challenges.