The summer break brought in the addition of a new assistant coach to the IUS volleyball team — Katie Tinsley.

Tinsley graduated from IU Southeast in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in continuing studies and a certificate in medical transcription.

“I loved IUS when I was there,” Tinsley said. “Not just the school but playing volleyball, and I wanted to get involved again.”

She currently works full-time at Kosair Children’s Hospital.

Tinsley also had a career as setter with the IUS volleyball team from the 2006 to 2008.

According to IUS athletics statistics archives, Tinsley was ranked sixth on the university’s all-time assists list, with 2,038. She also ranked seventh in serving at a 94 percent, sixth in receiving at 93 percent and eighth in digs, with 1090 during college.

Lesley Drury-Prather, head volleyball coach, started coaching the team after Tinsley left but has known her for many years through a family connection. Tinsley played volleyball with Prather’s sister in grade school and college.

“She has been in the family forever,” Prather said. “Katie brings experience and enthusiasm. She’s a great fit for the team.”
Tinsley said she is impressed with the team this year, even though more than half are freshmen.

“They know the game and bring a lot to the team,” Tinsley said.
Tinsley said she also has a lot of respect for the veteran players.
“They have had Lesley before and know what is expected of them,” Tinsley said.

While coaching is very rewarding for Tinsley, she said the opportunity to learn more about the game and new coaching techniques from Prather helped convince her to take the assistant coaching job.

“It’s a blast to coach with such an amazing person,” Tinsley said.
As assistant coach, Tinsley helps run drills and keep the players focused and motivated for future games.

By SONDRA MORRIS

Staff

sobmorri@ius.edu