by Hailey Barrus--2020 brought many obstacles and changes to Morningside’s campus. But for the Mustang women’s and men’s volleyball programs, it was a good kind of change. Both programs are under new coaching for the 2020-2021 volleyball seasons.
Jessica Squier, Morningside alumni and now head women’s volleyball coach, accepted the position of head coach weeks before the pandemic hit nearly a year ago. Excited to start her new adventure at her alma mater, Squier faced a year unlike any other for the volleyball program.
“The transition was more difficult compared to some of my other coaching endeavors. I was only able to meet with some of the girls briefly before the pandemic hit, then I wouldn’t see most of their faces until August. Not having the months to bond and get to know the team I would be leading was difficult at the beginning of the season,” Squier stated. “Luckily I have Krista Zink, our sole senior, and she has done a great job in helping transition the team to new leadership.”
The changes don’t end with the women’s program, though, as the Mustang men’s volleyball program is also under new leadership with head coach Thieson Anderson. Anderson was introduced to the Mustang program through Squier. The pair were old friends and with Squier noticing the men’s position was available, she immediately thought of Anderson.
“This past year has been a lot of new experiences for me. On top of taking my first head coach position, you add a newer program and COVID on top of everything. It has been nice to have Jessica by my side along the way. We both try to assist each other as much as possible,” said Anderson.
Due to COVID, women’s volleyball will be competing this spring in tournament play, whereas the men’s volleyball season has just begun.
“Our teams are both young and looking to grow, but postseason play people better watch out for Krista Zink, our returning hitter, who as I mentioned earlier is our senior captain this year,” stated Squier.
The Mustang men are led by senior Kyle Cox, who is a transfer student this year from Briar Cliff University. The men’s program is young, but Anderson is hopeful his recruiting tactics and young energetic attitude will guide the program in a positive and winning direction.
Leave a Reply