Article by Phoenix writer Sophia Kelly ’26:
This winter, our very own Mrs. Catherine vonSchoenermarck was named Coach of the Year for Region 1 by the AVCA.
The American Volleyball Coaches Association awards the top High School Girls Volleyball Coaches for their unwavering commitment to their respective teams. This award comes in very high demand, and this year, Mrs. Von led Kellenberg’s Girls Volleyball Team to a state championship.
When asked about how it feels to receive this honor, Mrs. Von expressed her gratitude for the award while still humbly giving the players of the girl’s varsity volleyball team credit for the team’s success.
She specifically pointed out the senior’s on the team this year as they displayed immense leadership and comradery towards the younger girls, and were able to further unite the team with each game.
Mrs. Von responded to what inspires her most about coaching by saying, “Watching the girls grow from point A to point Z in just 12 weeks empowers me. The girls all become the best versions of themselves when competing and putting their whole self on the court which is incredibly rewarding.”
Mrs. Von also speaks about her experience from the many wins and the losses she’s endured. She expanded on John Madden’s quote, “Winning is the best deodorant,” in saying that coaches must learn and improve from everything. Victories, along with the losses, can be taken as lessons and experiences to grow and improve yourself.
Regarding the special role that is being a coach, she gave her best piece of advice for new coaches who are seeking to enhance their gameplay and coaching strategy. She said that all coaches must know that they can grow from anything and learning never ends. You must be a sponge to everything you see and then make it your own. A coach should be authentic with his or her strategies to create a strong team that strives for perfection.
The Kellenberg community is extremely grateful to have a coach that has shown great dedication to the volleyball program and the shaping of successful athletes.
