I’ve seen firsthand how sports can be transformative, and how the right coach can deeply shape an athlete’s journey. From an early age, I developed a strong work ethic and a passion for competition. As a 3-time All-State and All-District athlete in volleyball, swimming, and tennis, and through my experiences in collegiate and professional beach volleyball, I came to understand how athletics build confidence, resilience, and the tools necessary to succeed in life.

My decision to start Athens Elite grew directly from those experiences: the positive ones that fueled my love for the game, and the challenges I faced, particularly at the collegiate level, that revealed what young athletes need most. Now, watching my own daughters discover their love for the game, I’m reminded daily how critical it is to nurture athletes in uplifting, inclusive environments that focus on the whole person.

That’s why I created Athens Elite: a club committed to empowering athletes of all ages and skill levels. Our mission is to build skill, confidence, and a lifelong love for the game. Through technical training, mental resilience, and positive reinforcement, my vision is to help players grow not just as athletes, but as people, developing leaders through volleyball.

Beyond coaching, I serve as a professor in the Game Art & Design program at Columbus College of Art & Design and in the School of Art at Ohio University, where I bring the same passion for growth, creativity, and mentorship into the classroom.

My journey as a volleyball player began on the sun-soaked beaches of Brazil, where my passion for the sport truly blossomed. Over the years, my dedication, relentless hustle, and love for the game led me to win numerous gold and silver medals, cementing my place in the competitive world of beach volleyball.

A fun fact about my volleyball journey: I was so committed to improving my game that I would wake up at 5 am to get in extra practice before heading off to school. That early-morning grind shaped not only my skills on the court but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work and perseverance.

In addition to my playing career, I’ve spent the last two years coaching youth volleyball at Vinton County Middle School. Coaching has allowed me to share my love for the game with the next generation of athletes, helping them hone their skills while fostering their self-esteem and emotional growth. Seeing young players develop both on and off the court is incredibly rewarding, and I take pride in creating a positive environment where they can thrive and build confidence in themselves.

This is Ryann’s third season with Athens Elite, and she is thrilled to be coaching 15 American! Growing up in Dayton, Ryann played volleyball for her school and various clubs as a 5-1 setter. When her playing career ended, Ryann began assistant coaching youth boys volleyball. However, she eventually found her niche coaching girls club volleyball ages 14 and 15. She is committed to creating an environment where players feel safe and supported while growing competitively.

She holds a B.A. in political science from Ohio University, and will be graduating with her Master’s degree in May. In her free time, Ryann loves to read (both fiction and nonfiction), craft, and watch reality TV with her friends! 

I played volleyball through elementary and high school. My most memorable moment was making varsity my freshman year.

I have been coaching for 2 years at Alexander and recently became the youth league director Spring 2026.

Investing in youth sports is something I am very passionate about. Foremost I am here to build confidence, integrity, and resilience in our young athletes. Once those qualities are established, there are no limits. Volleyball is 90% mental so I approach each mistake as a positive learning experience! Athletes need to know how to forgive not only their teammates mistakes, but their own as well. Next ball mentality!

Fun fact: my favorite music genres are heavy metal, Christian, and Taylor Swift (yes she is her own genre).

Personal interests: Reading psychological thrillers, trivia, attending Northbend Church with my family, and working out with my husband Joseph!

Jacob has been in the fitness/wellness industry since 2010. He is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology & Health from Miami University and Master of Science degree in Sports Administration from Valparaiso University.

Fitness and living an active, healthy lifestyle is Jacob’s passion. He tries to serve and love others as much as he can, always determined and focused on providing the upmost professional service. Jacob’s personal mission statement is to improve the lives around him through hard work, commitment, and consistency; and to instill a knowledge and love of fitness that will enable them to lead healthy and productive lives.

In Jacob’s spare time, he loves spending time with his family and working on his farm. Hailing from Columbus (originally from a small town in Northwest Ohio), Jacob is happy to be living in a small community again and is excited to be a part of the Ohio University family!