He has coached high school ball and been the coach and mentor of a high level women’s club for several years. As a coach, he motivates players in practice, pushing them to improve their skills. He is a true student of the game. He designs multiple offensive and defensive strategies for teams with very different strengths and weaknesses, and is truly invested in seeing all these teams succeed.
He not only coaches, but helps recruit as well, bringing in women that may never have known of organized ball after college, or of Yankee. And, of course, he helps organize his men’s team
Besides playing, organizing and coaching, he has also served the Yankee community as one of the members of the Men’s Ratings Committee and on the Yankee Board.
But this person is more than his volleyball resumé. He’s competitive and does everything he can to help his team win, but does so while demonstrating sportsmanship and respect for the other team. He is the calm, “level-headed” one out there. He excels at quietly motivating his own players without “talking trash” to the other team.
Though he plays with some of the top players in the region, you can often find him at other tournaments alongside players with a wide range of abilities. He is always anxious to help bolster another’s self-confidence. He simply loves to play, and loves to play with others who share his passion for the game.
This year’s male Rick Pierce Award recipient has a heart and soul that reflects sportsmanship and a love of volleyball. Please join us in applauding:
Brett Crandall
