Hawthorne Varsity/Junior Varsity volleyball has been doing exceptionally well this season with an undefeated start of 6-0! The dedication the team has had, as well as many great skills, has brought the team much success. This wouldn’t be possible without varsities coach Megan Carr, junior varsities coach Rachel Ambrogio, and freshman coach Tyler TenKate! As I am able to play for the team, I got a chance to ask these coaches the questions listed below.
- How long have you played/coached volleyball?
Coach TenKate: This is my second year with the freshman team, but I also volunteered as a coach while I was in college.
Coach Carr: I played volleyball from 6th-12th grade. I also played 4 years at Montclair State University. I have had the pleasure of coaching 8 seasons at Hawthorne High School.
Coach Ambrogio (A): This is my 8th season coaching volleyball.
- Is there anything about the season that you really notice is making it such a good one so far?
TenKate: I think the vibes are really strong this season and our players are really supporting each other as teammates.
Coach Carr: This season, we have an immense amount of talent. In my 8 years of coaching, this is the best start to a season yet! Being 7-0 has been very exciting with this very driven team.
Coach Ambrogio (A): The energy is here! I think we have not only talent, but teamwork.
- Why is it beneficial to have such a large freshman team this year?
TenKate: I’m so excited to have such a large freshman team this year! It helps to build the program as players gain experience and grow not only as individuals, but as a whole team.
Coach Carr: It is beneficial to have a large Freshman team because we can develop the fundamental skills at a younger age. Having a large Freshman team allows them to be able to scrimmage other Freshman at their skill level. This helps grow the love of the game and build a successful JV/V team down the road.
Coach Ambrogio (A): The size of the freshman team keeps the program going. Even though we don’t have a middle school team like most schools, the passion is there and it gives our program a future.
- What has been your favorite part of coaching?
TenKate: My favorite part of coaching is seeing the team progress throughout the season. Winning is also nice!
Coach Carr: My favorite part of coaching has been the connections I’ve made through the years being a coach. It brings me great joy seeing previous student-athletes continue playing in college and/or being a volleyball coach after graduating.
Coach Ambrogio (A): My favorite part of coaching is witnessing the incredible growth of my players. Watching them transition from eager freshmen to confident seniors, knowing they’ve developed both as athletes and individuals, is the most rewarding experience. This transformation is what keeps me coming back year after year. My passion for volleyball drives me to share this sport with others, and seeing my team thrive on and off the court makes every moment worthwhile.
- What keeps players and yourself motivated?
TenKate: I am motivated by helping my players achieve their goals. The fall sports are a really long season, but working with Coach Carr and Coach Ambrogio makes the days fly by.
Coach Ambrogio (A): My love and passion for volleyball are what truly motivate my players. When I walk into the gym, it’s not about the challenges of the day; it’s all about our shared commitment to the sport and helping them reach their full potential. Coaching alongside friends like Coach Carr and Coach TenKate, makes this journey even more enjoyable and less stressful. But the greatest reward comes from watching my players grow and evolve into exceptional athletes. Their progress inspires me every day!
- And finally, why coach volleyball? I mean what really makes you love this sport, especially coaching it?
TenKate: I love that volleyball is a team sport. Hitters rely on a solid set, but the best sets come from strong passes. Everyone on the court has an important role to play in being a successful team.
Coach Carr: I love coaching volleyball because I’ve always had a passion for playing it. It has brought me so much happiness to be able to share my knowledge of the game with others. Volleyball is a fast paced sport that keeps everyone on their toes. It is so exciting to play, coach, and watch!
Coach Ambrogio (A): During my high school years, I may not have been the most naturally talented player, but my deep understanding of the game and my passion for volleyball set me apart. When the opportunity to apply for the freshman coaching position arose, I was thrilled. I coach because I truly love the sport and love the growth it fosters, both in players and in myself. Playing and coaching have taught me invaluable life skills that I apply every day. I feel incredibly fortunate to remain connected to the sport I adore, now from the sidelines as a coach. I feel like the saying, “once a bear always a bear” really sums up why I coach!