Celebrating Young Coaching Talents in Atlanta
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as it’s that time of the year again when we get to recognize some amazing young coaching talents across the nation! The 30-Under-30 honors program is back, and it’s highlighting the incredible work of coaches who are under the age of 30. These coaches come from various sectors of sports, showcasing their commitment and passion in roles that range from head coach to dedicated volunteers.
This year’s award recipients are a vibrant mix of women’s and men’s coaches who are making significant strides in the field. They embody everything we want to see in coaching—dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for helping players grow and succeed. Each coach selected had to be aged 30 or younger as of December 31, 2023, making this a truly inspiring group of rising stars.
A Stellar Start for Georgia State Volleyball
One standout coach from this year’s list is Jones, who is making quite a name for herself as the assistant coach for the Georgia State Panthers’ volleyball team. In her first season working alongside head coach Flavia Siqueria, Jones has played an essential role in ensuring the team got off to the best start since 2011! That’s no small feat, especially considering how competitive collegiate sports can be!
Jones has a heartfelt admiration for her head coach. She expressed, “Flavia, who also won this award, has been nothing but an awesome example of dedication, hard work, and passion in the field of coaching.” Her words speak volumes about the supportive environment that they create together, which is obviously translating into success on the court!
From Marshall to Panthers
Before landing this exciting role at Georgia State, Jones spent three years as an assistant coach at Marshall University. During her time there, she took on various responsibilities that stretched far beyond just coaching. She immersed herself in everything from recruiting and data analysis to engaging with the community through service and camps. This diverse experience has shaped her into a well-rounded coach capable of adapting to any situation.
Jones didn’t just start her coaching career out of nowhere; she also has a solid background as a player herself. As an outside hitter at Wofford, she not only earned four letters but also captained her team for three years! On top of that, she made it to the Southern Conference Academic Honor Roll for three consecutive years and was recognized with the prestigious AVCA Diversity Award in 2018. Her journey in the sport has provided her with a wealth of knowledge and experience that she now brings to her coaching role.
A Bright Future Ahead
With her impressive resume and an evident passion for the game, it’s no surprise that Jones has been recognized as one of the rising stars in collegiate coaching. With her at the helm, the Panthers are not only achieving success but are also building a strong foundation for the future.
As we celebrate the 30-Under-30 coaches this year, it’s vital to acknowledge the hard work and determination that these young individuals pour into their positions. They are making lasting impacts on their teams and are ultimately paving the way for future generations of athletes. The sky’s the limit for these young coaches, and we can’t wait to see what they achieve next!
Thank you for taking a moment to appreciate the dedication and accomplishments of coaches like Jones and all the others recognized this year! Their stories inspire us and remind us of the importance of passion, hard work, and leadership in sports.
