SVC Coaching Staff

Jorge’s journey in sports began in the vibrant setting of Puerto Rico, where his early years saw him shine in both basketball and volleyball. His prowess in these sports continued to evolve, and while pursuing higher education at the University of Puerto Rico, Jorge not only excelled in basketball but also earned a degree in Human Resources Management.

Transitioning from an avid player to a mentor, Jorge found himself donning the role of an assistant coach for both of his daughters in the Pequeñas Indias Volleyball Club. His coaching journey reached a pinnacle in 2007 when his U11 team made waves at the Disney Classic, securing a remarkable 1st place in the Yellow Division.

In 2014, Jorge’s life took a new direction as he relocated with his family to Sarasota. Here, he embraced a different professional path as a mail carrier for the USPS, all while savoring the coastal delights of the area’s beaches with his loved ones.

Despite the changes in scenery, Jorge’s dedication to the volleyball community persisted. He continued to invest his time and expertise in assisting young players in the area, unlocking their potential and nurturing their skills in the game. Jorge’s commitment to the sport extends beyond the court, leaving an indelible mark on the aspiring volleyball players he guides in Sarasota.

Meet Sue, the dedicated Volunteer Coordinator for SVC, whose extensive experience in the non-profit industry makes her an invaluable asset to the team. With a background in managing volunteer schedules, Sue has honed her skills through years of service, most recently with Habitat for Humanity. However, her connection to volleyball runs deep, as she has been an active player for many years.

Sue’s journey with volleyball began on middle school and high school teams, extending to college intramural play and competitive USAV regional and national tournaments. Volleyball isn’t just a sport for Sue; it’s a family affair. She and her husband, Mark, first crossed paths on the volleyball court, and their shared love for the game is evident in the involvement of all three of their grown children in school and club teams.

In the vibrant volleyball scene of Indianapolis, Mark and Sue formed a formidable duo on the coed volleyball circuit for many years. Retirement and a move to Sarasota opened up new opportunities for the couple, allowing them to share their passion for the game as coaches for high school (both indoor and beach) and club volleyball teams.

For Sue, volleyball is more than a pastime—it’s a true love that she is fortunate to share with her husband. Playing, coaching, and watching the game have become integral parts of their lives, creating a bond that extends beyond the court. Sue considers herself blessed to be able to continue her volleyball journey alongside Mark, turning a shared passion into a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Mark’s volleyball journey is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport. His love of volleyball began during his college years, where he first stepped onto the indoor volleyball court. This initial spark evolved into a sustained flame as Mark continued to play for years, contributing his skills to esteemed college club teams like Vanderbilt and Michigan, and participating in numerous USAV regional and national tournaments. Mark’s love for the game extends beyond the indoor arena; he’s a frequent player in beach doubles, often gracing the sands of Siesta Key or Bee Ridge Park.

As a parent, Mark has a unique perspective on the world of volleyball. With all three of his children actively involved in club and school volleyball, he intimately understands the joys and challenges that come with supporting young athletes in their journey through the sport. This parental insight adds depth to Mark’s role as a volleyball enthusiast and coach.

Mark’s coaching experience spans various settings, from coaching juniors to high school teams and even adult players. Since taking early retirement in 2017 and making Sarasota his new home, Mark has become an integral part of the local volleyball community. His coaching prowess is showcased through his contributions to both SVC and Riverview High School, where he continues to pass on his knowledge and passion for the game to the next generation of players.

Tatiana’s love for the sport of volleyball began as a parent and then turned into learning the coaching aspect of the sport. She most enjoys teaching volleyball fundamentals to younger players. As a school psychologist, she incorporates social emotional learning in her trainings to help players grow both on and off the court.

Cookie’s journey in the world of volleyball is nothing short of remarkable. In 2019, she made a significant move from Puerto Rico to Bradenton, bringing with her a wealth of experience and passion for the sport. Back in Puerto Rico, she served as a Club Director, leaving an indelible mark by working for the Puerto Rico Department of Recreation, where she organized and facilitated both indoor and outdoor volleyball clinics and tournaments.

With an impressive coaching tenure spanning over 25 years, Cookie’s expertise has touched every aspect of the game. Her commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a love for volleyball is evident in the extensive work she did in Puerto Rico, both as a Club Director and through her involvement in recreational programs.

Cookie’s journey in volleyball isn’t confined to coaching alone; she also boasts a notable career as a professional indoor player in Puerto Rico. Before making the move to Bradenton, she was actively playing at the Masters level, showcasing her enduring dedication to the sport both as a player and a mentor.

Academically, Cookie has fortified her coaching knowledge with a solid educational foundation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, underlining her commitment to the well-rounded development of athletes. Furthermore, her academic journey includes a Masters in Sports Training and Education Administration, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the strategic and educational aspects of sports.

As Cookie brings her extensive background and passion to the volleyball community, her multifaceted experience, coupled with her educational achievements, positions her as a dynamic and invaluable asset to the world of volleyball in Sarasota.

Nickie Halbert’s volleyball journey is deeply rooted in her Sarasota upbringing. A product of Venice High School, she left an indelible mark on the court by playing varsity volleyball throughout her four years there. Her skill on the local stage paved the way for an exciting venture into Division 1 volleyball in North Carolina, where Nickie continued to hone her abilities and passion for the game.

Transitioning from player to mentor, Nickie embarked on a coaching path that has spanned over 8 years. Her coaching career took off at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, where she dedicated two years to shaping the next generation of players. However, Nickie’s heart found its home in high school volleyball coaching, where she has poured her expertise and enthusiasm into young athletes for over eight years.

For Nickie, coaching goes beyond the scoreboard. Her goals in coaching extend far beyond wins and losses. She aspires to leave a lasting impact on the girls she coaches, fostering not only their skill development but also nurturing a genuine love for the sport. Nickie’s coaching philosophy is rooted in creating long-lasting memories for her players, ensuring that the lessons learned on the volleyball court become cherished moments that shape their lives beyond the game.

Formerly at the helm of Suncoast Volleyball Club for 11 years, Jeff emerged as the Director and founder, leading the organization with passion and dedication. With 30 years of coaching experience under his belt, Jeff’s influence in the volleyball community is both extensive and enduring. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the world of volleyball.

Having spent a decade as the varsity volleyball coach at The Out-of-Door Academy, Jeff’s coaching experience extends across various levels, from Middle School to JV Volleyball and youth volleyball, accumulating 15 years of diverse coaching experience. As a USA Volleyball Club coach, he has successfully guided teams ranging from 10U to 15U, showcasing his ability to connect with players of different age groups.

Educationally equipped with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and a Masters in Athletic Administration and Coaching Leadership, Jeff’s influence extends beyond the court. For an impressive 27 years, he has served as an elementary physical education teacher, contributing to the holistic development of young minds.

Jeff’s commitment to continuous learning is evident through his certifications, including USA Volleyball Impact 1, Coaches Accreditation Program I and II, and Beach Impact Coursework. However, Jeff’s impact is not confined to the traditional coaching realm; he is the pioneer of the Volley Totz and Volley Kidz Programs in the Sarasota area, introducing the joy of volleyball to the youngest enthusiasts.

Driven by a belief in teaching “the game” of volleyball to athletes of all ages, Jeff strives to make every aspect of the sporting experience enjoyable. His coaching philosophy revolves around infusing practices, games, and activities with elements of fun, excitement, and healthy competition. Jeff’s ultimate goal is to make success achievable for athletes of all ages and skill levels, creating a legacy that extends far beyond the volleyball court.

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Jason’s journey with volleyball is deeply rooted in his Sarasota upbringing, where his passion for the sport blossomed during his high school years playing on the local beaches. With a coaching legacy spanning over 15 years in both indoor and beach volleyball, Jason has become a respected figure in the volleyball community, adorned with the hats of coach and parent in various club settings.

As a dedicated astronomy teacher at Riverview High School, Jason’s impact on the sport extends beyond the classroom. He not only serves as the varsity indoor volleyball coach but also oversees the entire volleyball program at the school. His coaching journey at Riverview began as the JV indoor coach, a role that laid the foundation for his influential leadership within the program.

Adding to his coaching repertoire, Jason has spearheaded and coached the beach volleyball program at Riverview High School, contributing to the growth and diversification of the sport within the school community. Beyond the academic year, he assumes the role of the summer camp director at Lake Aurora Christian Camp, creating an immersive and enjoyable environment for aspiring players.

A constant presence at SVC since its inception, Jason’s dedication has been unwavering. This year marks his second year in the role of Assistant Director at the club, bringing his wealth of experience and enthusiasm to guide the next generation of volleyball enthusiasts. Jason’s commitment to volleyball, coupled with his multifaceted roles within the community, stands as a testament to his enduring love for the sport and its transformative impact on young athletes.

Josh is a proud Sarasota native whose roots in the city run deep. His journey began at Riverview High School, where not only did he receive an education, but he also found his lifelong partner, Missy. Now a father of three, Josh has woven a rich tapestry of family, education, and a passion for volleyball.

Currently, Josh is making a significant impact as a chemistry teacher at Riverview High School, contributing to the academic growth of his students. However, his involvement in education goes beyond the classroom. His teaching career kicked off at Brookside Middle School, where he served as the assistant coach for the school’s volleyball team for two rewarding years.

After five years of dedicated service at Brookside, Josh seized a new opportunity at his alma mater, Riverview. Here, he assumed the role of the coach for the freshmen team, channeling his love for the sport into nurturing the talents of the next generation. His coaching tenure is marked by several successful years, leaving a positive imprint on the young athletes he guides.

Beyond the academic and coaching realms, Josh finds joy in staying active. Whether it’s the rhythmic pounding of his running shoes hitting the pavement, the tranquility of fishing, or the thrill of navigating mountain bike trails, Josh embraces a diverse range of outdoor pursuits.

Josh’s life is a testament to the interconnectedness of his passions—family, education, volleyball, and the great outdoors. As he continues to inspire students in the classroom and on the volleyball court, his love for Sarasota, coupled with his zest for life, creates a harmonious balance that defines his journey.

Amanda Myhrberg is a volleyball enthusiast whose journey with the sport has been a lifelong commitment. Having played volleyball for the majority of her life, Amanda’s dedication and passion for the game have been unwavering. Her collegiate years saw her as a formidable force on the court, representing Texas A&M International University from 2003 to 2006.

Post-graduation, Amanda transitioned seamlessly into a new role, becoming a Mental Performance Coach and sharing her expertise with aspiring athletes. Beyond coaching, her focus extends beyond the scoreboard—her ultimate goal is to facilitate the growth of her athletes, nurturing them not only as players but as individuals.

Amanda’s approach to coaching goes beyond the technicalities of the game; she believes in harnessing the mental aspect to empower her athletes. By combining her playing experience with her role as a Mental Performance Coach, she brings a unique blend of insight and understanding to the athletes she mentors.

In both her coaching and mental performance roles, Amanda strives to create an environment where athletes can flourish not just in their athletic pursuits but also in their personal development. Her dedication to helping athletes grow as both people and players reflects a profound commitment to the holistic well-being of those under her guidance. Amanda Myhrberg stands as a testament to the transformative power of volleyball, both on and off the court.

Ron’s volleyball journey is a rich tapestry that weaves together playing, coaching, and leadership experiences. Starting at Ambridge High School in Pennsylvania, he honed his skills as a high school player before making his mark at Penn State University. Currently, he remains an active participant in age-group USA Volleyball, contributing his wealth of experience to the Nittany Legends, recently competing at the Orlando Nationals in May 2022.

On the coaching front, Ron’s impact spans both high school and collegiate levels. From guiding the girls’ team at Octorara High School in Pennsylvania to coaching Men’s Division I at George Mason University in Fairfax, VA, he has left a lasting impression on the players he has mentored. His dedication extends to numerous camps, clinics, and individual lessons for youth and adults, emphasizing a commitment to player development.

Internationally, Ron has contributed to the USA Men’s Junior National Team, competing in tournaments held in Italy and Finland. His coaching excellence is certified with a USA Volleyball CAP (Coaching Accreditation Program) certification. Beyond coaching, Ron has assumed key leadership positions, serving as the Chair of the NCAA Men’s Volleyball Committee for two terms, a member of the USA Volleyball Rules Committee, President of the EIVA (Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association), and Chair of the EIVA Hall of Fame Committee.

Ron’s journey in volleyball reflects a lifelong commitment to the sport, showcasing his passion and expertise across playing, coaching, and leadership domains.