By Sarah Goodykoontz

New Tempe Prep volleyball coach Natalie Rockwell has a long volleyball history, which is a good thing for TPA.

Ms. Rockwell chose TPA because she remembers playing against the team 12 years ago. She played in a homeschool league, and Tempe Prep was one of the opponents. She remembers it as “a strong program, with hard working players who are also excellent students.”

She also likes the small size of our school, and says that she would not enjoy coaching at a big public school.

Coach Natalie also enjoys activities such as reading, painting, taking photos, and riding horses. Her goals for the season are sensible and will bring success to the team: “I want us to learn the culture of fundamentals and hard work.”

Coach Natalie is most excited for “working with a bunch of students who are excited about the game.” She wants to share her passion with the team and its players as they develop more and more skills. Coach considers volleyball a blessing in her life because it gives her countless opportunities regarding “health, activity, and meeting new people.”

She is excited about taking over the program and the upcoming season, and sounds as happy to come on board as coach as we are to have her.