In this episode of What’s Up Dunwoody, brought to you by Dr. Bret Freedman and Village Orthodontics, Matt talked to Kacie Evans, head coach of the Dunwoody High School girls’ volleyball team. Kacie shares her journey from playing at the University of Georgia to professional volleyball and ultimately becoming a coach in Dunwoody. Her story showcases her deep commitment to elevating the young athletes in Dunwoody and emphasizes her passion for both the sport and the community. As the conversation unfolds, Matt and Kacie touch on the fast-growing world of volleyball, both in Dunwoody and beyond.

From UGA Volleyball Star to Dunwoody High Coach

Kacie Evans’ volleyball journey began at the University of Georgia, where she played for five years and developed a profound love for the sport. After graduation, she played professionally for the Atlanta Vibe, making a name for herself in the newly formed league. Kacie’s transition into coaching was a natural progression, fueled by her desire to share her knowledge with the next generation of athletes. Her connection to Dunwoody came through family members who suggested she apply for the coaching role at Dunwoody High School. Now, she’s making a significant impact, both on and off the court.

A New Era for Dunwoody Volleyball

Taking the helm as head coach, Kacie inherited a young but eager team. The previous year saw nine seniors graduate, leaving behind a roster dominated by underclassmen. The team’s current makeup includes five freshmen, four sophomores, and a handful of juniors and seniors. Despite the team’s youth, Kacie is committed to building their confidence and volleyball IQ. As Kacie explains, success on the court requires more than just physical skill—it’s about mental toughness and game intelligence.

Her coaching philosophy is centered on incremental progress. Kacie emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and taking small, daily steps toward improvement. This approach has resonated with her players, and the team’s hard work is starting to pay off.

Dunwoody’s Volleyball Scene: A Growing Legacy

Kacie’s dedication to building a strong volleyball program at Dunwoody High School is part of a larger trend. Volleyball is rapidly gaining popularity in the area, and Dunwoody is becoming a hub for young athletes. As Kacie mentioned, volleyball clubs in the Atlanta area have seen a surge in participation, and many of her players are honing their skills outside of school through club volleyball. This is good news for Dunwoody, as the pipeline of talent is only going to grow in the coming years.

The Future of Dunwoody Volleyball

While the Dunwoody High volleyball team has had some ups and downs this season, Kacie remains optimistic about the future. She’s confident that her young team has the potential to achieve great things, both this year and in the years to come. As the players continue to develop their skills and gain experience, the sky’s the limit.

Kacie is particularly excited about the prospect of taking the team to the state tournament. With a few more wins, the Wildcats could find themselves competing at the highest level, a dream that Kacie and her players are working hard to make a reality. She credits the players’ work ethic and determination, noting that they’ve shown remarkable improvement in just a short amount of time.

Professional Experience and Coaching at Dunwoody High

Kacie’s experience as a professional athlete brings a unique perspective to the Dunwoody volleyball program. Not only has she played at a high level, but she also has a deep understanding of the mental and physical demands of the sport. Her assistant coach, who plays professional beach volleyball, complements her coaching style by offering a more technical, situational approach to the game. Together, they’re pushing the players to new heights.

Kacie’s coaching philosophy centers on balance—knowing when to push the players and when to let them find their own way. She believes that by creating a positive, supportive environment, her players will thrive both on and off the court.

Living in Dunwoody: A Place to Grow

Though Kacie currently resides in the Marietta area, she has developed a deep appreciation for the Dunwoody community. She has spent considerable time in the area, especially when her fiancé’s family graciously offered her a place to stay while she transitioned from college life to professional volleyball. Kacie loves the charm of Dunwoody and its surrounding areas like Sandy Springs, noting the accessibility, amenities, and overall community vibe.

Her frequent commutes from her home near the Cumberland area to Dunwoody High School have given her an opportunity to explore the northern region of Atlanta, and she’s grown fond of the tight-knit, family-oriented culture that defines living in Dunwoody. For Kacie, Dunwoody feels like home, even if she hasn’t lived here long enough to call it permanent. But with her strong connection to the community, she’s confident that Dunwoody will continue to play a significant role in her life.

The Power of Community in Dunwoody Sports

One of the most rewarding aspects of Kacie’s role as head coach is seeing how much the Dunwoody community supports local sports. Dunwoody High School’s volleyball program benefits from the backing of parents, students, and local businesses, all of whom are invested in the team’s success. This sense of community is something that sets Dunwoody apart from other areas, and it’s one of the reasons why Kacie is so passionate about coaching here.

Why Volleyball is Thriving in Dunwoody

Volleyball has exploded in popularity in recent years, and Dunwoody is no exception. Kacie attributes this growth to the rise of club volleyball, which has given young athletes more opportunities to develop their skills. Club volleyball offers a higher level of competition and exposure, which has been a game-changer for many players.

At the same time, the high school volleyball scene is catching up. More and more girls are getting involved in the sport at a younger age, and the level of competition has increased dramatically. Kacie believes that this trend will only continue, and she’s excited to see where it takes the Dunwoody volleyball program in the years ahead.

A Call to Action for Dunwoody Families

If you’re living in Dunwoody and have a child interested in volleyball, now is the time to get involved. Kacie Evans offers private lessons and is always happy to work with young athletes who are looking to improve their skills. Whether your child is just starting out or is already playing at a high level, Kacie can help them take their game to the next level. You can reach out to her directly via email at [email protected] for more information.