York’s Monday Learning Volleyball, Coaching

Entering just its third season in program history, new York Institute Volleyball Coach Shayne Monday said it’s been a learning experience.

When head coach Michael Green announced he would be stepping down, Monday offered his services though he had never coached volleyball before.

“I put my name in the mix and the administration gave it to me,” Monday said. “And I’ve been trying to study and learn things, especially rotations and things like that as far as the technicality of the sport. But I just enjoy the competition and it’s an exciting sport and I like that.”

The first two seasons exceeded all expectations with the Lady Dragons going a total of 25-9. Early into his tenure, Monday told his team that he would be learning the sport’s specifics as they go along. While this might have shaken the confidence of his team, Monday said the Lady Dragons have taken the change of leadership in stride.

“So, I think that’s a big thing right now. Just the intensity of them buying into a new coach and kind of a new way of doing things,” Monday said. “So, I’m real excited about that and real pleased with their attitude and their mentality that they have with the volleyball where it’s at right now at York.”

Due to his lack of experience, Monday said rotations, player personnel and substitutions were main concerns. But, Monday has found helpful coaching resources in unexpected places, opposing coaches.

“I’ve been talking to other coaches, coach Tori (Victoria Permenter) at Stone, she’s been a big help to me trying to get started,” Monday said. “So, I’m trying to pick up things of that nature concerning the game. And hopefully I can bring that and make the right decisions during the course of the year to put us in a position to be able to be successful.”

With the first two seasons of York volleyball resulting in a district championship and a runner up district title, Monday said his goal is to go beyond districts and reach regional play. But, right now Monday is focused on instilling the elements of a successful volleyball program.

“Another goal is the girls to just be very committed to the game, to bring that energy into the practices and to the games that we play,” Monday said. “To be focused, to come and be ready to play. Our team goals are to do those things not just to win.”