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AHSVCA Coach of the Year
Each fall, the Alabama Volleyball Coaches Association (AHSVCA) recognizes a Coach of the Year in each school classification. Coaches recognized are nominated and voted on by AHSVCA active member coaches.
- NOMINATE: Sept. 28 - October 9, 2026
- VOTE: Oct. 14-21, 2026
AHSVCA/AVCA membership is required to nominate & receive AHSVCA & AVCA awards.
Nominate: 2026 Coach of the Year
2026-27 AHSVCA All-State and Coach of the Year nominations are open September 28, to October 9, 2026. Awards will be selected by class. All AHSVCA/AVCA active member coaches may nominate to Coach of the Year in any school classification. Members may nominate more than one coach. Coach of the Year nominees must be an active member, and have a successful 2026-27 record.
Considerations:
- Knowledge of the game, rapport with the team, talent development, leadership and volunteerism, and rapport with other coaches, officials and media.
Vote: 2026 Coach of the Year
Voting Instructions:
- All AHSVCA active member coaches may vote for one Coach of the Year in each school classification.
- Coaches are NOT required to vote in every class.
Selection Process:
- Coach of the Year will be selected for each class.
- Voting is not necessary for Classes 1A, 2A, and 3A, as each class has a single outstanding nominee.
- LEARN MORE about the Coach of the Year nominees.
2025-26 AHSVCA Coach of the Year Awards
Congratulations the 2025-26 AHSVCA Coaches of the Year!!
DOWNLOAD the 2025-26 AHSVCA Post-Season Awards Announcement.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 1A - Ginger McArthur, Fayetteville School
Ginger McArthur has guided Fayetteville School to a 77-34 record over three seasons, including a 28-9 finish in 2025. Her growth-focused approach challenges athletes through tough schedules and elite tournaments, preparing them for the next level. Under her leadership, three players have signed to play collegiately, two earned spots on the 2025 AHSVCA 1A All-State First Team, and her daughter Kenleigh was named 2024 AHSVCA 1A Player of the Year.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 2A - Jennifer Mann, Pleasant Valley High School
Jennifer Mann, head coach of Pleasant Valley High School Volleyball, has guided her team to consecutive AHSAA 2A State Championships in 2024 and 2025, compiling a 60-32 record over two seasons with a 65% winning percentage. She also played a key role in the program’s 2023 state title as an assistant coach. With 11 years of coaching experience—nine at Pleasant Valley—Coach Mann has earned multiple honors, including the 2024 AHSVCA, AHSAA, and Calhoun County 2A Coach of the Year awards.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 3A - Beverly Barron, Dadeville High School
Beverly Barron has revitalized Dadeville High School’s volleyball program in just two seasons as head coach, leading the team to a 10-10 record in 2025 after three winless years prior to her arrival. Her leadership has brought structure, confidence, and growth, with the team now participating in camps and earning a third-place finish in their area.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 4A - Kaylon Cantrell, Prattville Christian Academy
Kaylon Cantrell has led Prattville Christian Academy volleyball for 14 seasons, earning nearly 400 career wins and guiding the Panthers to a spot in the 2025 AHSAA Class 4A State Finals. Her program has achieved consistent success including three state titles (2022, 2024) and multiple deep postseasons runs, including Elite 8 (2019, 2023) and Final Four appearances (2020, 2025).
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 5A - Melissa-Paul Gardner, Guntersville High School
Melissa-Paul Gardner has revitalized Guntersville High School Volleyball in her first season as head coach, guiding the team to an impressive 64-5 record and 2025 Class 5A State Championship. Prior to returning to Alabama, she also led Cowan High School to an Indiana state title in 2019 and a Final Four appearance in 2020. Her coaching journey includes club, collegiate, and high school success, and she continues to mentor elite athletes through the Bama Elite Volleyball Club.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 6A - Justin Kisor, Spain Park High School
In just his second season at Spain Park High School, Justin Kisor has guided the Jaguars to a 38-19 record and a Final Four appearance. With an overall career record of 228-138 across eight seasons, Kisor’s programs have earned five area championships, seven regional appearances, and three trips to the state tournament.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year Class 7A - April Marsh, Austin High School Volleyball
April Marsh, head coach of Austin High School volleyball, guided her team to a stellar 44-9 record and an appearance in the AHSAA Class 7A Final Four this season. In just her second year at Austin, she has instilled a disciplined, growth-driven approach that has elevated the program’s performance and consistency. Her leadership focuses on player development and team culture, creating a foundation for sustained success.
AHSVCA Coach of the Year History
2023-24 Coach of the Year
- 1A - Ricky Austin, Spring Garden
- 2A - Dana Bryant, Pleasant Valley
- 3A - Danielle Helms, Ashford
- 4A - Drew Murphy, Central
- 5A - Julie Gordon, Montgomery Academy
- 6A - Joi Washington, Pike Road
- 7A - Jenny Jarrett, Bob Jones
2024-25 Coach of the Year
- 1A - Ricky Austin, Spring Garden
- 2A - Jennifer Mann, Pleasant Valley
- 3A - Meredith Donald, St. Luke's Episcopal School
- 4A - Jana Killen, Deshler
- 5A - Emily Logan, Priceville
- 6A - Perry Robinson, Pelham
- 7A - Kate Wood, McGill-Toolen Catholic
2025-26 Coach of the Year
- 1A - Ginger McArthur, Fayetteville
- 2A - Jennifer Mann, Pleasant Valley
- Class 3A - Beverly Barron, Dadeville
- Class 4A - Kaylon Cantrell, Prattville Christian
- Class 5A - Melissa-Paul Gardner, Guntersville
- Class 6A - Justin Kisor, Spain Park
- Class 7A - April Marsh, Austin