08/21/2026
Yesterday was one of those days that reminded me why I love coaching.
I was driving back from work, still about an hour and a half from home, when I got a message from the mom of one of the athletes I’ve had the privilege of coaching through my teams and clinics.
She told me her daughter had made her school team. She’s one of only two 5th graders playing with 6th graders, had been named captain, and was going to be playing libero.
Then she said something that really meant a lot to me...“Thanks for setting the foundation.” That hit me! 🥹
I’ve told this young lady for a long time that I thought she could become an excellent libero. I’ve always loved her serve too, it actually reminds me a little of how I used to serve when I played. 😁
But more than anything, I always saw a leader in her.
That’s why I made her captain of our team last season. So hearing that she had been named captain made me really proud.
Her first game was yesterday evening, and there was no way I could drive home, change, and still make it in time. Luckily, I had a volleyball shirt in the car.
The rest of the outfit? Well… you can see the picture. 😂
But I said forget it. I’m going, and I’m really glad I did. Not only did I get to watch her play, but I also saw several other athletes I’ve coached in the past.
For once, I wasn’t standing on the sideline coaching them. I wasn’t correcting technique, thinking about the next drill, or telling somebody where they needed to be, I was just part of the audience.
I got to sit back and watch these girls compete, enjoy the game, and apply so many of the things they’ve worked hard on.
Sometimes as coaches, we’re so focused on helping athletes get better that we don’t stop long enough to appreciate how far they’ve already come. Yesterday, I got to do that, and I was proud.
Proud of this young lady. Proud of the other athletes I saw out there, and grateful that somewhere along their journey, I got the opportunity to be a small part of it.
Yes, we teach volleyball, passing, serving, defense, movement, communication, all of it, but I hope what they take with them is bigger than volleyball. Confidence, leadership, work ethic, and a real love for the game.
Keep working, keep leading, and keep enjoying the game...Coach is proud of you. 🐸🏐💜
And yes, I know somebody is going to say something about the shoes. 😂 Hey, I came straight from work…and I’m telling you, those things are comfortable to drive in! Priorities! 😂
Sometimes you just have to show up. 🥰
Coach Miguel,
