Bryson Brings New Excitement to Program
“Digging” the New Volleyball Coach
The fourth volleyball coach in five years may be young, but she’s equipped with lots of experience. Jesse Bryson has played volleyball at Highlands High School and at Colorado College, and previously coached at Kentucky Ohana Volleyball Academy. “The academy is where I actually learned about GRC and the position,” Bryson said. “There were several Lady Cards playing at the academy so I thought it would be a good fit for me at GRC.”
As captain of the volleyball team, Melanie Manns said all the coaching changes have been difficult. “We’ve lost many girls due to the inconsistency of the coaching staff,” she said. “However, the hectic coaching situation has helped us grow as a team. In hectic times we are able to help each other out, and decide what’s best for the team.”
Alongside Melanie Manns, junior and captain Emma McQuade has faced the difficulties of having three coaches throughout her high school volleyball career. “Having several coaches has allowed the team to see and experience different styles of coaching, the good and the bad,” McQuade said.
Despite the challenges the team has faced, the girls have experienced many bright spots this season. “The win against Montgomery County definitely helped to give us a morale boost,” Coach Bryson said. She is definitely excited about coaching the Lady Cards. “Being a first year head coach, I couldn’t have asked for a better group of girls. They have great attitudes and personalities and their excitement to learn volleyball makes me want to be a better coach,” Bryson states.
Haley Snell is a Senior and second-year Smoke Signals member. She loves penguins, her favorite movie is Christmas Vacation, and she dances in her free time.