South Metro

Tracy Dudley, Founder
As a true Colorado Native, Tracy has been an active volunteer in the local volleyball community for nearly 15 years.  Picking up the sport late in life, she has played in and organized countless adult competitive leagues & tournaments across the state—including virtually every format: hard-court, grass, sand, 2s, 4s, 6s, coed, reverse coed & women’s.  Approximately 2 years ago the business that operated the Inverness volleyball building went under and all of the clientele were stranded without a home.  After much hesitation and external persuasion, Tracy reluctantly agreed to take on the arduous task of long-term success of this fantastic volleyball resource.  With Tracy's magic touch, the place became busier and livelier than ever with positive energy that was contagious.  Having created the largest youth volleyball organization in Colorado, she is now on to her next challenge of expanding beyond the south metro area!

By trade, Tracy is a successful marketing professional who operates her own research and analysis company.   She has played an integral role in consultation to many Fortune 500 companies, such as Kellogg's, Microsoft, Target Stores, Wells Fargo, Kroger, Procter and Gamble, McDonald's and many more.  More than 2 decades ago, she graduated with Phi Beta Kappa outstanding academic honors from the University of Colorado with a Bachelor’s Degree in Adult and Child Psychology.  From this same University, she also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing--graduating with Beta Gamma Sigma academic honors and professional excellence.  Tracy is a published author who also currently writes for her local community newspaper.  She is the wife of her high school sweetheart and has 2 young sons who can’t stand volleyball.

 “My only reward in facilitating volleyball programs is happy players.  I do what I do because I want people to have fun and develop a life-long passion for volleyball.”

 Petra Naeff, General Manager
Petra has been playing volleyball for nearly 40 years and continues to play at a very competitive level.  She has coached for more than 30 years--starting with adult volleyball, progressing to youth soccer and volleyball at both the recreational and club levels.  Petra was born in Austria and raised in Switzerland, but she has lived in the United States for almost 20 years.  She speaks 5 languages fluently and is currently a French Instructor at Lutheran High School.  Petra actually holds 4 Master's Degrees and a teaching certification from the University of Berne, all summa cum laude (with highest honors and prestige) in French Literature, Ancient Greek, Roman Philology, and Latin.  If you have any questions about the programs we offer, Petra is the one to talk to.

"I love what we are doing!!!  The positive energy in here is absolutely phenomenal!!!  I think it's neat that girls who would never be able to enroll in programs like ours anywhere else get a chance at good volleyball.  They are the people we do this for..."

"You and Petra have both gone above and beyond for our team.  I want to say thanks for all of that...we really appreciate it!  Our girls had a great time!"

—Tonya S, Highlands Ranch

Talayna Akrie, Coach & Instructor
Talayna is a 3-time letter winner from Grandview High School, where she was named Second Team All-Conference her senior year.  She went on to play college volleyball as a setter at Colby Community College, where she earnd Second Team All-Jayhawk West and Second Team Region VI/District D.  She moved on to set for the Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders.  Both of her sisters were also noteworthy collegiate volleyball players.

Talayna holds an Associate's Degree in Chemistry and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology.  She has been coaching for many years, is currently a head coach at 303 Volleyball Club, and participates in many South Metro Volleyball programs.  She continues to play competitive adult coed and women's volleyball at a high level in many leagues and tournaments across the metro area.

"I enjoy coaching volleyball because I have been involved in the game since 5th grade!  I have  extensive volleyball knowledge, and I love to pass that on to those who also have a passion for the sport.  I was successful growing up in how I was taught to play, and I would like to see kids who love volleyball as much as I do go as far as they can and enjoy as much success as possible."

"We would love to have our son play with Coach Talayna again!  She is awesome!  Does she coach a team in my daughter's age group?  If so, she would love to have Coach Talayna!"

—Sandy E, Parker

Robert Albi, Coach
Bobby played volleyball in high school and college in California, which is also where he started coaching.  From coaching his first group of high school freshman in California, he moved on as founder and player on the men's club team at College of the Canyons.  When Bobby moved Colorado, he coached and played on the Regis University Club team, moving on to juniors USAV club teams.  South Metro Volleyball is grateful for adding Bobby to the coaching team, as he has been instrumental during the early stages of youth league development.

Bobby holds an Associate's Degree from the College of the Canyons and a Bachelor's Degree from Regis University.  He is currently Regional Sales Coordinator for a national media corporation in Centennial, Colorado.

“I continue to coach volleyball because I have so much fun doing it.  It truly is a passion of mine, and I hope to help younger players develop.  If it's not fun, why do it?”

"Thank you so much, Bobby!  My daughter is happier at South Metro than I have ever seen her!  Makes me happy!"

—Annette M, Aurora

"We really appreciate Coach Bobby.  He teaches my daughter the techiques of volleyball, and she  is  loving the league! Thank you!"

—Che M, Aurora

Lou Bluestein, Coach
Lou picked up the sport of volleyball as an adult, playing doubles at Cheesman Park and advancing to coed sixes.  He has played throughout Colorado, as well as national events such as the Huntsman Senior Games.  Lou started coaching more than 30 years ago, including club teams, Gold Crown teams, and middle school teams--girls and boys.  He discovered South Metro Volleyball through word of mouth, and the relationship was a natural fit from the first meeting.

Lou has a Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley and  Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado School of Law.  He is currently a retired (and recovering) attorney.

"It's rewarding to see young players learning to play and enjoy the sport I love."

Kyle Brownlow, Coach
Kyle started playing doubles volleyball as a teen and continued to play until fatherhood.  Once his oldest son turned 7, Kyle had to switch into coaching mode.  Over the past 17 years, he has coached his son and daughter in a variety of sports - including soccer, softball, and volleyball. 

He has coached many teams through C.A.R.A.  Volleyball in Lakewood, Golden, and Arvada...where he was mentored by an excellent technician in coaching.  Kyle also has also coached girls at the club level and actually took one of his teams from division 5 up to the highest division by season end.

"I love kids, and I love every minute of coaching!  To make a difference, I want to build strong, respectful young ladies for the future.  I do not coach for me, I coach to build strong kids!  I want the kids to understand they can do whatever they want to do in life, yet be respectful and gracious at the same time."

"My daughter is excited to play with you and your coaches again!  She has learned so much from you and really has come to love the sport of volleyball!  She is now a volleyball fanatic!  I plan to sign her up again on Kyle's team!  Please hold her spot!" 

—Jen M, Parker

Scott Bunker, Coach
Scott likes to go "all out" on things.  When both of his daughters took a strong interest in volleyball, he built a full-sized court in the back yard where they play all of the time.  While he played for fun in college, Scott did not take a serious interest in volleyball until he started volunteer coaching a couple of teams through Castle Rock Parks & Recreation.  At one point, a head coach had abandoned his daughter's team, and he felt compelled to step in and help the players because it was the right thing to do.  After continuing to coach for several subsequent sessions, Scott unexpectedly found himself addicted to volleyball and coaching.

Despite being a long-time friend of the Dudley family, Scott found his way to South Metro Volleyball through other word of mouth.  Immediately stepping into assistant coaching under one of our best coaches, Scott was hooked on the South Metro philosophy of high-caliber positive coaching and empowering players to reach their maximum potential.  Scott holds a Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science from Colorado State University, with a minor in Meteorology.  He currently works as a Lead Software Engineer for one of the region's largest telecommunications corporations.  By passion, he is an avid landscaper, tree expert (has planted more than 120 trees), musician, skier, and acclaimed Christmas light authority and aficionado: RockinChristmas.com.

"I enjoy how challenging the game of volleyball is.  I enjoy working with the players, watching them grow and realizing their true potential: giving them the confidence, skills, tactics and mental fortitude to believe in themselves and perform at a high level.  I feel that I’m not only developing volleyball players, but the leaders and coaches of tomorrow.  I bring a creative and practical approach to coaching.  I find that my main strengths are: character, integrity and determination.  If my players emulate me in these ways, they will be able to climb any mountain they choose."

Megan Burmaster, Co-Coach
Although she only played volleyball for a few years through middle school, Megan made the Freshman team at Legend High School and was voted team captain.  Recruited by several elite clubs, she currently plays on a very competitive team in the highest division of the South Metro Volleyball Youth League.  Mentored by some of the best coaches in the state, Megan has a natural penchant for teaching volleyball to younger players.  In addition, her energy and enthusiasm for the sport is contagious and can be felt throughout the gym when she is coaching! 

Megan remains active in student government through school, is currently a representative for her choir, was a keynote speaker for the grand opening of her new school, and recently was honored with the school's Titan Award for Most Outstanding Student.

Karen Callahan, Coach & Instructor
Karen started playing volleyball in 5th grade and advanced to club volleyball, high school volleyball, and college volleyball on scholarship.  She has been coaching for more than a decade and has coached competitive youth volleyball in many venues, including Gold Crown, club, high school, private lessons and group clinics.

Karen continues to play women’s and outdoor volleyball at a high level and currently works as an instructional coach for Jefferson County Public Schools.  She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and English from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Master’s Degree in Education Psychology from the University of Colorado.  Her Colorado teaching license is also current.

“I love seeing the growth in kids athletically and with regard to their confidence.  In addition, the connection with the players and their families is an awesome bonus!”

"Karen, we were sitting and having dinner with friends bragging about you and SMVB!  Now we are wondering if there is room for one more player on your team?"

—Andi R, Denver

Katie Cohen, Coach
Katie started playing volleyball in 7th grade and went on to play at Manitou Springs High School as a right-side hitter, where she lettered sophomore through senior years.  During her senior year, she was named 1st Team All Conference and made the All-State Team for Class 3A.  Katie played on a competitive club team in Colorado Springs for 4 years, traveling to many nationwide tournaments--including Junior Nationals in Orlando, Florida.  Althought she was recruited by several Division I and Division II schools, she chose not to play competitively while attending college.  While enjoying many volleyball leagues at Colorado State University, Katie earned her degree in Public Relations.

After graduating college, Katie began coaching summer camps through Skyhawks Sports Camps.  She also coached elementary school volleyball for several years before joining the South Metro Volleyball family.  Katie's volleyball career has helped shape the person she is today, and she hopes that her passion for the sport can help others grow to love it!  She also coaches volleyball to help kids realize their potential and understand that through practice, dedication, and most importantly FUN, anyone can enjoy the sport of volleyball.

"I am passionate about keeping kids involved in sports, and I think sports are one of the most useful things a person can be involved in in life.  Not only do sports teach self-discipline, commitment, and passion...they also help us learn what it means to be a part of a team and grow in ways we otherwise would not."

Greg DeRoeck, Coach
Greg has been playing high level volleyball since he was a freshman in high school.  In addition to playing high school volleyball, he also simultaneously played for the Golden Bear Volleyball Club, then the Moraga Volleyball Club in California.  Greg’s team qualified for the Junior Olympics all three years he played for Moraga, which included a second place finish only behind UC Berkeley at the National Club Championships.  Impressively, Greg also spent numerous years as a competitive grass doubles player, earning several championships, including NCVA Coed Doubles titles.

During high school, Greg was awarded MVP and captain of his team—a team that won two high school league championships under Greg’s leadership as a player.  In College, Greg’s team came in second at the Men’s National College Volleyball Championships.  It was during this time that Greg caught the coaching bug.  He has several years experience as a successful coach of junior college, high school, and club teams.  Under his head, the McKinleyville High School volleyball team quickly worked its way from last place in the district up to a championship contender.  He made similar accomplishments as a coach for Club Shasta, an elite volleyball club in the same Northern California area.

Greg recently took a team of complete strangers he had never met before on a very impressive run to the Division 1 championship game of a No Limits Competitive Youth Volleyball tournament.  He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Humboldt State University in California and holds multiple Microsoft technical certifications as an IT consultant in Castle Rock.  He has also played alto saxophone professionally, and enjoys spending time on and off the course with his golf pro wife and two children. 

"We were very impressed with Coach Greg's skills and the drills he ran.  He was able to help each player grow in the areas they needed the most help, as well as strengthen and correct in others.  We just wanted to let you know that the whole team thought his coaching was great!"

—Gina O, Castle Rock

Christy Dupree, Coach
Christy started playing volleyball in 5th grade, lettered 3 years in high school, played all 4 years of college, and continues to play women's volleyball in Aurora.  She has been coaching volleyball since high school, and really got hooked on it recently with AYL's Parker Hawks.  She currenly coaches one of the strongest teams at South Metro Volleyball, and has even started her own club team called DVC.

With a degree from William Jewel College in Missouri, Christy is a Registered Nurse (RN) and is very excited about switching to the day shift as she starts a family of her own.

"I coach volleyball because I love the sport. Watching the growth in younger kids as they play is an amazing thing!"

"Thanks for putting all the extra time in to make a wonderful environment and opportunity for our kids!  We had another great time with Coach Christy in Fall Session 1. We appreciate all you do!"

—Brent T, Parker

Chuck Ellis, Coach & Official
Chuck has been involved in recreational sports in Colorado for more than 35 years, working for numerous recreational and sports organizations.  While not quite old enough to be a grandpa, you could consider Chuck Ellis the Grandfather of Volleyball in Colorado.  About 20 years ago, he opened SandShark Sports, Inc., an all-volleyball store in Greenwood Village.  He also co-founded Front Range Volleyball Club, perhaps the most elite club in the state.  Moving on to non-profit endeavors, Chuck also orchestrated the formation of youth volleyball organizations such as Rocky Volleyball, C3, Colorado Spirit, and South Area Volleyball Club.

With national status, Chuck is one of the highest ranking volleyball officials in the State of Colorado, and has refereed or volunteered for volleyball games ranging from local recreation centers to the Olympics.  He is an active member of USA Volleyball, American Volleyball Coaches Association, Professional Association of Volleyball Officials, and Colorado Volleyball Officials Association.  He is also a recipient of the Glenn Davies National Service Award for contributions to volleyball. 

With a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation and a minor in Psychology from Metropolitan State College of Denver and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Colorado, Chuck also holds USAV CAP Level 2 Certification and Level 3 Conditioning Training.

"Regardless of the score, stay competitive, keep learning, and play your best.  Have confidence in yourself and your teammates, always speak in positive terms, and have fun!!!" 

Michelle Ellis, Coach
Michelle is a Colorado native who has played volleyball since middle school.  She played for the Littleton High School team and went on to play international club volleyball at Arapahoe Community College.  Starting at the recreational level with South Suburban Parks & Rrecreation, Michelle's coaching rapidly advanced to the high school  and club levels.  Now very happy at South Metro Volleyball, Michelle loves it and calls it 'the best place ever'!  Her husband and all three children have spent many enjoyable years on the volleyball court, as well.

"I love coaching for South Metro Volleyball! I enjoy coaching any age, but the 'little' kids are so fun to be around!"

"My daughter had a great time with Michelle and her team.  She wants to come back for the next session and join the same team again!"

—Tamson S, Parker

Tom Emmons, Coach, Instructor & Official
Coach Tommy has an unmistakable passion for the sport of volleyball.  His desire to help young players succeed has put him coaching in Colorado for more than 20 years.  He has head coached freshman, sophomore, junior varsity and varsity teams at several high schools in the area, as well as elite club volleyball teams at every age level from 11u to 18u.  He has instructed numerous high caliber camps and clinics for local colleges, clubs, and schools--including several USAV high performance camps.

Tommy has played adult volleyball ranging from numerous city league teams to USAV high-caliber men's and coed teams.  He is also currently certified as a USAV Regional Referee and continues to officiate in numerous venues across the state.

"A win-loss record is meaningless to me.  The smile on a player's face when he or she is successful...priceless."

Sheri Fling, Coach
Sheri has been playing volleyball for more than 25 years!  She played 4 years in high school & 3 years of competitive club volleyball in Minnesota.  After playing in college, she decided to make volleyball a hobby so she could concentrate on her education & career.  As an adult, she has played 2s, 4s & 6s leagues & tournaments in the sand, grass & hardcourt.

Currently a Certified Project Manager, Sheri holds a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology.  She started coaching 4th grade volleyball at the Castle Rock Recreation Center & was instantly hooked.

"I love seeing the girls improve and have fun.  I had the same team for 2 seasons, and it was incredible the improvements that they made.  I am looking forward to coaching them more this summer and teaching new skills."

Karyn Guilford, Coach & Instructor
As a youth, Karyn played 3 years of club volleyball in southern California where she received an athletic scholarship to Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA.  In her first season at VCU, she earned top stats in blocking, then went on to set a team season record for number of digs per match.  As an adult, she has played in many competitive coed doubles grass tournaments around Colorado, as well as indoor hard-court coed 6s leagues.

Karyn started coaching youth volleyball in college by volunteering at youth camps.  As a walk on varsity coach at Faith Christian High School 5 years ago, Karyn took her team to 2nd place in district and on to regionals.  Then 2 years ago she took a virtually all-freshman Sheridan High School team and developed successful junior varsity and varsity programs.  In addition to coaching at South Metro Volleyball, Karyn serves as a head coach at Club 5280.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from VCU and a Master's in Education from the University of Denver.

“There is nothing more rewarding than to watch an athlete develop his/her performance on the court.  Not only does this take great instruction from the coach, but a passion to learn from the athlete, the confidence to believe he/she can improve, and a willingness to step out of his/her comfort zone and push him/herself to be a better player.  This passion, confidence and willingness to improve can either be reinforced by a coach, or squandered.  I believe it is an inherent responsibility of a coach to support an athlete in his/her endeavors to be the best he/she can be.”

"I am very thankful for Coach Karyn--her energy is so positive and enthusiasm for the game so contagious.  Thank you again, we look forward to many more seasons of fun!"

—Lisa L, Parker

Kristi Harlan, Coach & Instructor
Kristi Jo (KJ) Harlan coached high school volleyball for more than 10 years.   During her head coaching career at Green Mountain High School, KJ lead the Rams to their very first Regional Title in volleyball (since the opening of the school in 1972).  She has coached All-State, All-Conference, and Jeffco MVP players.  As part of her dedication to coaching volleyball, KJ coaches various youth and adult clinics for South Metro Volleyball.  As a professional, KJ currently teaches high school biology, but continues to play both indoor and outdoor volleyball.

In high school, KJ participated in volleyball, basketball, and track and field, earning All-State Honors, State Championship titles, and state records.  At the collegiate level, KJ participated in Track and Field and, Cross Country for Colorado State University, while continuing with volleyball and basketball on the side.  She is part of a school record holding Mile Relay team for CSU, and in 1995, became the Western Athletic Conference Champion in the 400m hurdles, and qualified for the 1995 Olympic trials in that particular event.  KJ was the recipient of the 1995 Virginia K. Frank Award at CSU for most outstanding female athlete.  She went on to coach track and field for the Rams for 12 years, specializing in hurdling and sprints.

"I've always been a firm believer in technical training, whatever the sport may be.  Athletes need fundamental and technical training that involves multiple repetitions before they can reach maximum athletic performance.  It's the little things that can make an average athlete become exceptional."

"

"VERY IMPRESSED!!! I never thought that a camp for 4-6 year olds could be that good.  LOVED the coaches, LOVED the drills, LOVED seeing the learning!  What a great thing you are doing for young players! :)  Our daughter loved it!!!" 

—Tiffany L, Parker

Ryan Hoerdemann, Co-Coach
Ryan has been playing volleyball since middle school.  In high school, she was the starting middle hitter on the Freshman team her first year.  As a Sophomore, she started as a middleon the Junior Varsity Team.  By her Junior year, she was the starting middle hitter on the Varsity team and led her team in kill percentages.  She currently plays club volleyball for Sudden Impact.  Ryan caught the coaching bug helping out as an assistant coach at her local middle school.

After several sessons playing at South Metro between school seasons, Ryan believes our coaches helped her tremendously.  She wants to coach here so that she can help players in the same way.

"I love coaching because I am able to help young players strive to get better at the sport they love. My favorite part of coaching is seeing my players succeed, with all their hard work paying off during games."

Anna Houser, Coach
Anna grew up playing volleyball in Utah, where she excelled at the club level and was recruited by many colleges.  As an outside hitter, Anna played for the University of Wyoming—which, at the time, was one of the top-25 volleyball schools.  She was named to multiple All-Tournament teams and Tournament MVP during her college career.  Anna picked up the coaching bug while playing at UW, and recently reignited her passion when her youngest of 4 joined the South Metro Volleyball program.

Anna has a degree in Child and Family Studies from the University of Wyoming, and puts it to work 24 hours a day raising 4 children.  You can find Anna at the facility coaching, scrimmaging with 303 Volleyball Club players, and playing pick-up ball with her husband and friends.

"Our girls had fun!  Of course, they were THRILLED to win the tournament!  We will be back after this session is over and are hoping Anna is still coaching!  Thanks once again!

—Michelle K, Littleton

Brad Houser, Coach
Brad has been coaching on and off for the past 20 years.  In his youth, he coached at Weber State University as a volunteer assistant for two seasons and has coached numerous summer camps for an assortment of universities.  Most of his coaching is been with USAV Juniors teams in the 16-18 year old age groups.  Brad’s junior volleyball teams have won regional championships and competed nationally, while many of his players have also received athletic scholarships to play in college.  A handful of his former players have since picked up the coaching bug themselves. 

Brad is currently coaching 303 Volleyball Club's 14's developmental team, which started at South Metro where he currently coaches the team in a dual-role as a coach for league play and for USAV tournaments.  He started playing volleyball at the age of 14 in the Seattle area, and picked up doubles volleyball in college.  Brad currently plays pickup ball, either indoor or doubles, with his wife and friends.  He holds a degree in Marketing from the University of Wyoming and works in product development in the telecommunications industry.

“I coach because I love having a positive impact on these young kids...both on and off the court.”

"Brad has been a great coach - the girls love him!  We are of course very pleased with the team's participation at South Metro and congratulate you on a very well run organization.  You are doing a great job!  Thanks for all of your hard work!"

—Pete P, Denver

Ashley Jenkins, Coach
Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, Ashley was a 4-year letter winner in high school volleyball, where she was voted team captain 3 years in a row.  During this time, Ashley also earned Dean's List status, won academic scholarships, received Academic All-American accolades, remained actively involved in student government and other societies, and was awarded Champions of Character in 2009. She went on to play outside hitter at Indiana Tech, continuing excellence both on and off the court by earning the Hyashi Award for Oustanding Student Athlete and qualifying for the Alpha Chi Honor Society.

After graduating with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, Ashley remained heavily involved with athletics by concentrating her talents on personal fitness coaching and sports psychology for a variety of Indiana Tech athletics programs.  In fact, she has much experience studying the dynamics of coaching, teaching sports imagery and visualization, and assisting in player goal setting.  After working as an assitant coach and Strength Training Facilitator for Front Range Volleyball Club and receiving many Top Performer awards in the professional world, Ashely has returned to graduate school and is working toward her Master's in Performance Psychology from the University of Denver.

"I want to achieve a significant role in the lives of others by applying the skills I have acquired through experiences untilizing the mind and body."

Brenda Kimball, Coach
Brenda grew up in New York and played for a high school team that advanced to the play-offs every year.  She went on to play at her community college, fell in love, moved to Colorado, and started playing in adult recreational leagues with her husband.

Several years ago, one of Brenda's friends 'volunteered' her to coach a fall youth league team at Inverness.  Her team did very well, and she was officially hooked on coaching.  She has  coached multiple teams with AYL and has been a treasured coach at South Metro Volleyball since day one.  Trained solely by Brenda, her daughter was invited to join a team at Front Range Volleyball Club based on her visible talent and natural instinct on the court.

"My greatest accomplishment is my daughter and all of her friends who developed the talent to move on to club teams.  I just love the game and have big dreams for my kids."

"We request Brenda for a coach.  Our other daugher was on the White Lightning team, and Brenda was an AWESOME coach!" 

—Amy A, Littleton

Rich Kolberg, Coach
Rich has been playing and coaching competitive volleyball for more than 25 years. He started playing grass, sand and indoor volleyball tournaments in high school (Fort Collins) and continues to compete today. Originally, he played defensive back for the US Air Force Academy Football team until a career ending back injury pointed him toward another sport.  He made the men's varsity volleyball team as a walk-on outside hitter.  After graduation, he moved on to play and coach for several US Air Force varsity and USA Volleyball teams in South Dakota, Oklahoma, Nebraska. Lousiana, Alabama and Virginia.  He also had the opportunity to assistant coach girls high school teams in Rapid City, South Dakota and Shreveport, Lousiana. Since then, he has instructed several youth and adult clinics, organized/implemented competitive tournaments, and been a USA Volleyball certified referee.  Rich is also a licensed youth soccer coach who has been coaching competitive soccer for more than 6 years in Douglas County.

Rich has a B.S. in Management from the US Air Force Academy and a M.B.A from Lousiana Tech University.  He spent the majority of his Air Force active duty career as a Boeing B-52 Bomber Pilot/Aircraft Commander/Instructor/Evaluator.  He is currently the Manager of Colorado Business Strategy and Development for one of the world's largest aerospace and defense corporations and serves in the US Air Force Reserves.

"I love the competitive game of volleyball.  It is one of those sports that you can play at a high level for your entire life.  I only hope to relay that passion to the athletes that I have the opportunity to influence. The rewards of coaching are too numerous to list, but when a player leaves my team with a better skills foundation and a more invigorated love of the game than what they came in with, I feel we accomplished something of value together."

Kevin Lacy, Coach
Kevin played volleyball as a kid, along with many other sports: hockey, softball, and basketball.  He started coaching youth sports at the elementary school level and spent 10 years as a coach for Destination Imagination.  He fell in love with volleyball in particular when his oldest daughter started playing club.  To be as involved as possible, he volunteered his time on numerous occasions officiating, assistant coaching, and recruiting.  He has coached many ages for several years at the club level, while at the same time head coaching for AYL, Gold Crown, and South Metro Volleyball.

Kevin earned a Bachelor's of Science and Master's of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Colorado and is currently a software engineer for one of the nation's largest aerospace corporations.

“I enjoy getting to know the players and helping them develop self-confidence.  I consider my season successful when every player improves their volleyball skills, and every player wants to play again--even if they move on to another team.  My goal is to develop joy for the game in each player that lasts a lifetime.”

Kellie Lansberry, Coach & Instructor
Kellie has been coaching volleyball for 17 years at high schools, elementary schools, and recreational youth programs.  She started playing volleyball at 9 years of age and played through high school--attending several elite camps at local universities.  Kellie was recruited to play in college by Metro State, DU, and Stanford, but suffered a career-ending back injury as a high school senior.  Kellie continues to play as an adult in many formats, including 2s, 4s, and 6s on hardcourt, sand, and grass.

Kellie holds a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration with additional study in accounting and economics from the University of Colorado.  She currently owns and operates a professional interior design company.

“I love coaching for so many reasons, but mostly it's very rewarding to see girls succeed and improve.  I'm not able to play at the level I used to because of injuries over the years, but if I can share with them what I know...it's just as rewarding to see them do it.  My goal is to pass techniques I have learned along at an early age, so our girls have a chance to compete with those playing club.”

"Our daughter played in your league for the first time on Coach Kellie's team.  It was the best volleyball experience she has ever had!  We really like Coach Kellie!"

—Ann G, Aurora

Jonathan Manske, Mind Coach & Instructor
Jonathan Manske has been playing volleyball for nearly 30 years. He ran the intramural volleyball program at CU Boulder many years ago and has professionally officiated for several years.  He currently plays volleyball as much as he can.  While his favorite format is sand doubles, Jonathan also plays hard-court and grass, 4s and 6s, coed and reverse coed. 

By profession, Jonathan is a speaker, author, and Cerebral Sanitation Engineer.  His presentations, books and one-on-one consulting are all designed to remove head trash and replace it with the mindset, attitudes, self image, and non conscious programming that create success.  Over the last 20 years, Jonathan has assisted more than 1000 people to “get out of their own way” so they can tap into their potential and experience peak performance, creating greater success, greater fulfillment and greater happiness.  He holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Colorado and has taken numerous post-graduate courses in his field.  For more information about Jonathan and the personal growth programs he offers, please visit www.JonathanManske.com.

“Today's thoughts, attitudes, and programming create tomorrow's outcomes.”

Kelley Morrison, Instructor
Kelley is currently the Head Volleyball Coach at Green Mountain High School, and has spent the past 10 years as an integral member of the school’s volleyball coaching staff.  She also currently coaches many types of youth and adult volleyball clinics, and is a master of teaching up-to-date proper form and technique.

In high school, Kelley was a 3-sport athlete, competing at a very high level in volleyball, basketball, and track and field.  She garnered multiple All-Conference, All-Area, and All-State accolades in all 3 sports and went on to compete collegiately in track and field at Colorado State University.  She continues to play competitive volleyball today and regularly captains a women’s 6s team to the adult USA Volleyball National Championships.  With an Bachelor’s of Science from Colorado State University, Kelley is currently the supervisor of the Occupational/Physical Therapy Department for Denver Public Schools.

“I strive to develop disciplined, hard working, successful volleyball players.  Participation in sports is such a privilege, and I make sure athletes walk away with not only athletic skills but important life lessons.”

Chris Mullens, Coach
Chris has been playing competitive volleyball since the 8th grade.  She played high school varsity volleyball and club volleyball in Arizona.  On academic scholarship, not athletic, Chris made the Clemson University women's team as a walk-on and started all four years!  During her college volleyball career, she was voted Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Week at one time and received Volleyball Academic All American honurs her junior and senior years.

With her natural talent, love of the game, high-level experience, and a healthy competitive streak, her penchant for coaching was inevitable.  In addition to coaching for several recreational programs, she has also coached for Chaparral and Grandview Gold Crown teams, AYL, and South Metro Volleyball.  Her Gold Crown, AYL, and South Metro teams have a tendency to finish near the top, if not as league champions.  Chris holds a Bachelor's of Science in Industrial Enginering from Clemson University and an Master's of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University with Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. She currently works as an IT project manager in the Denver area.

"I enjoy...seeing the look on players' faces the first time they master as kill, celebrating great plays with my teams, helping young players start their volleyball careers, and seeing former players moving on to play for their schools and clubs."

 Sarah Nash, Coach
Sarah developed a passion for volleyball in her youth while watching her older sisters compete.  She attended high school in Washington State, and is a 4-time letter winner.  She was named team captain and helped lead her team to state tournament play her junior and senior years.  Based on her high school achievements, Sarah received a full athletic scholarship and played college volleyball as a middle hitter at Columbia Basin College, a member of the Northwest Athletic Association. She was a starter as a freshman and helped lead her team to the conference championships.

Sarah is a licensed Emergency Medical Technician and holds an Associate's Degree in Legal Administration.  She is very active and continues to pursue opportunities both playing competitive volleyball and volunteering her time to coach youth in the community.  Although she is enthusiast of virtually all sports, volleyball is her passion and she loves to pass on that passion and her volleyball knowledge to help youth succeed.  She enjoys cooking, running, reading, but especially loves spending time with her four kids and husband of 16 years.

"I love volleyball and enjoy helping others develop a passion for the sport.  I want to help them acquire skills that will help them be their best, not just in volleyball, but in every aspect of their life."

 Scott Nugent, Coach
Scott played and coached volleyball all through college in California, where he developed a natural passion for beach volleyball--which he still plays to this day.  He was a 2-time MVP for the Northern California Jr. College League, then moved on to play and coach for Ricks College.  He also spent several years coaching youth club volleyball in the Dallas area.

Scott hold a business degree from the University of Texas and currently serves as a Divisional VP for one of “Inc 500’s Fastest Growing Companies".  He loves to golf and hang out with his wife of 15+ years and their 4 children.

"My attitude toward coaching young, developing players is: #1 Remember this is FUN!  #2 Identify the area you want to improve.  #3 Let's work at it together!"

"I spoke with Scott Nugent, and he is willing to coach our team this session!  We are so excited to play in your league!  I am grateful as a mom for a league like yours!  I have heard nothing but good things about your organization!"

—Nancy H, Parker

Heather Rohlwing, Coach
Heather started playing volleyball for her middle school in 7th grade--continuing to play throughout high school, where she was voted team captain and named All Conference.  She then played outside hitter on a travel club team at the University of Colorado and still plays as much as she can today.

Since graduating with her Bachelor's of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Colorado in Boulder, Heather has been a mother of four, working in a variety of fields - including many years of volleyball coaching.  She coached for Battle Mountain High School in Vail right out of college, and has enjoyed coaching numerous programs like AYL and local recreation centers ever since.  Heather really enjoys spending time with the younger, developing players at South Metro Volleyball.

"I love volleyball.  I have enjoyed many facets of the sport since I was 13 years old.  I am so thankful to still play!  I enjoy coaching young players because they grow and learn so quickly, and I can see their excitement for the game develop.  Volleyball, when learned young, can be enjoyed for many, many years in all kinds of settings."

Steve Schmidt, Coach
Steve has been playing volleyball since age 18, participating in many doubles tournaments all over Arizona, California, and Colorado.  He won several awards in Arizona, as well as many men's A and coed A tournaments here in Colorado.  Steve started coaching more than 5 years ago and has coached for Castle Rock Parks & Recreation, Douglas County Dolphins, and South Metro Volleyball.  The majority of the girls he has coached have moved on to major club volleyball.

Steve has also coached youth basketball and baseball.  He holds a Bachelor's of Science from Arizona State University, and is a regional sales manager for a building products distributor in Denver.

"The most rewarding thing about coaching is seeing the players improve and progress.  I love watching kids that I have coached in the past play at the varsity and junior varsity levels in high school.  My goal is to have all of these young players find the same passion for volleyball that I have and to continue to play for the rest of their lives."

Brent Timmons, Coach
Brent started coaching youth recreational volleyball through the City of Parker several years ago, always emphasizing player improvement AND a good experience with volleyball.  He has also coached for Parker Hawks, developing every player so that they made the A and B teams at their respective schools.  He started as a parent and volunteer assistant coach at South Metro and has advanced to one of our best coaches in very little time.

After growing up in Southern California, Brent believes volleyball is just as much for boys to love as it is for girls.  While still actively involved in playing volleyball as an adult, he also heads several athletic programs and youth church teams.  Perhaps even more impressive, is that he runs his own track club, Parker Panthers.  Brent loves all sports, but competed collegiately in the decathlon for Bringham Young University.  He also earned a Master's of Accountancy from the school and is currently a CPA operating as CFO for a small gold mining company headquartered in Colorado.

"I think if you teach the correct fundamentals (like trying to have three touches on each side), you will make better players who learn the sport the right way so they can build and grow.  Winning is nice, but doing the right thing is more important.  I also embrace the philosophy of letting the volleyball teach the girls - that is to say, running practices/drills efficiently so they get a high amount of touches during the short amount of time we have to practice."

Gia Vasey, Coach
Gia has been coaching and officiating youth volleyball for more than 10 years.  She has coached programs in middle school, high school, college, and parks & recreation.  She has coached both males and females at a very high level, and currently programs several youth sports for the Town of Castle Rock.

Gia played collegiately at Aurora University, and was team captain for 2 of those years.  She has played at a very high level as an adult (including a few years professionally) and continues to play indoor, outdoor, women's, coed, 2s and 6s.  Gia obtained a double Bachelor's of Arts from Aurora University, then a Master's from the University of Illinois.  She currently owns and operates her own floral design and event service business in Castle Rock at www.1bloom.com. 

"I love to coach where I can.  I feel that stressing the fundamentals at this level is going to give players the most benefit."  

"My daughter played volleyball last winter at your club and loved it!   Thank you sooooo much!  My daughter is very happy with Coach Gia!" 

 —Christen O, Lone Tree

Jon Waddington, Coach
Jon has been active in sports since early youth.  He played soccer and basketball in high school, then started playing volleyball as a freshman in college. He played all 4 years at the University of Northern Colorado, where he went on to catch the coaching bug. While at UNC, his teams as a player and as a coach went to nationals on several occasions.  He continued to play as an adult at a very high level in men's indoor 6s and outdoor doubles. 

Jon has a Bachelor of Arts Degree as a double major in Philosophy and History.  He currently works as a programmer and IT Manager for an investment firm in the DTC area.

"Volleyball most rewards learned skills over raw athleticism and is the most team-dependent youth sport.  You can't accomplish much without help from your teammates and that creates a uniquely unified team atmosphere where you get a cohesive 'we're all in it together' approach.  It's fun to watch as the kids embrace that idea.  I love the sport, and I love to watch a new generation pick it up and keep it going the right way."

Maggie Wiening, Coach
Maggie has played competitive volleyball since 7th grade.  She made her high school varsity team as a Freshman, and earned team captain and First Team All Conference status her Junior and Senior years.  At the same time, Maggie played competitive club for Front Range Volleyball.  She played at Trinidad State Junior College on a volleyball scholarship for 2 years, where she was named Player of the Week several times and All Conference her Sophomore year.  Marriage cut her college volleyball career short, but she continues to play competitive adult coed 2s and 4s indoors and outdoors.

Currently a mother of 3, Maggie has been coaching for several years, starting at the recreational level through the HRCA.  In addition to an Associate's Degree from Trinidad State Junior College, Maggie also holds a Real Estate Brokers License of 8 years.

"I love the game, and I love seeing players realizing their potential and living it!"

Andrew Whitson, Coach
Andrew started playing volleyball at age 14, when a girls’ volleyball coach saw him playing in a gym class and asked him to tryout.  He played JV for one year, subbing for the varsity squad, then played varsity for the remainder of his high school career.  He won the most improved award as a sophomore, and earned the Blue and Gold award for outstanding athletic achievement and sportsmanship his senior year.  Andrew also received the Scholar Athlete award all four years of high school.  He continued playing club at Ithaca College, starting as a middle/outside hitter all four years and voted captain and president his senior year.  Andrew currently plays as a middle hitter in an adult men’s league.  He began coaching as a junior in high school, coached the girls’ varsity team and club team at Ithaca College, and currently coaches the Girl’s 7th and 8th grade volleyball coach at Place Bridge Academy.  Andrew also has coached tennis as a private instructor and assistant coach.

Andrew grew up in  Rochester, New York graduating from Webster Schroeder High School as a Regents Honors and AP Scholar Student.  He continued his schooling at Ithaca College in New York as a Music Education major, with a minor in Psychology.  He graduated Cum Laude and was also granted the prestigious campus life award for outstanding service to the college community.  Andrew now works as the Instrumental and General Music teacher at Place Bridge Academy in Southeast Denver as a part of Teach for America.

"I enjoy coaching youth volleyball because I believe in the positive impact of sports on academic and life achievement.  I want to foster my passion and love for sports, academia, and involvement into all of the people I have the opportunity to work with or coach."