Mekana Barnes
Mekana Barnes
Assistant Coach, University of Albany
AVCA: Who or what has made you want to pursue coaching?
Mekana Barnes: My grandmother has been telling me for several years that she could see me being successful as a college volleyball coach. She is someone who always supports me and all the adventures I have enjoyed that volleyball has presented.
AVCA: Who or what has been your biggest coaching influence?
MB: My biggest positive coaching influences have been my high school and club volleyball coaches. Valerie Elliot at ThunderRidge high school encouraged me to try out for the volleyball team after she watched me in a basketball practice my sophomore year. She played a significant role in connecting me with Front Range Volleyball club Coach James Beasley. James was the second coach I had come into contact with that cared about my wellbeing and my success as a person. These coaches have a permanent place in my memory and success story.
AVCA: Please list your past and present coaching/playnig experiences:
MB: Like many other collegiate volleyball players I have gained experience coaching high school volleyball camps and assisting in clinics. My first experience as a volunteer assistant coach was at Regis University with Frank Lavrisha and Joel List. I am currently and coach at the University at Albany assisting MJ Engstrom. I was a student and athlete at Colorado State University from 2004-2009. After graduation I traveled and trained with the U.S. National volleyball team for approximately a year. I also began a professional playing career in Benidorm Spain and finished in Puerto Rico.
AVCA: What are you most looking forward to at the 2011 AVCA Annual Convention?
MB: I look forward to meeting with and learning from successful minority coaches and making connections with other minority scholarship recipients. This opportunity is a reflection of the accomplishments of minority coaches. I am proud and grateful to be invited to attend as a scholarship recipient. I look forward to the workshops, banquet and other AVCA activities.
