Nicholls State University head volleyball coach Jay Van Vark announced April 25 that former Samford and UAB standout Chelsi Carter will join his staff as assistant coach.
“Chelsi brings an unparalleled energy and experience to our staff,” Van Vark said. “Her infectious love for the game has helped her create a detailed technical approach to coaching while always inspiring joy and youthful expressions throughout the game. I am very excited for her to help shape our team.”
Carter played a key role on the Bulldogs’ 2011 and 2014 SoCon Tournament Championship squads. She wrapped up her senior season in 2014 by being named to the All-SoCon Tournament Team and the SoCon Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Carter also garnered All-SoCon Second Team honors, one year removed from being awarded 2013 SoCon Libero of the Year.
Following four years of indoor volleyball, Carter earned a full beach volleyball scholarship with the Blazers. She played alongside Sara Rishell as the team’s top pair, finishing with 15 wins which ties the third-most in program history.
Carter then moved into coaching roles, serving as UAB’s volunteer assistant indoor and assistant beach volleyball coach during 2016-17 and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology’s assistant indoor volleyball coach in 2017-18.
At both universities, she was responsible for travel, pre- and post-game meals and breaking down film. During Carter’s latest stint with the Hardrockers, she managed a portion of the team’s budgeting, scheduling and scouting.
Carter earned a bachelor’s degree in sports administration from Samford in May 2015.
