Grossmont College’s women’s volleyball program is entering a new chapter for the second time in a year, with the hiring of head coach Kara Barkdoll Coy who brings both local ties and a wide range of experience to the role.
Coy, originally from Portland, Oregon, first came to San Diego as a college athlete. She played at Cal State San Marcos, where she was part of the school’s very first volleyball team. She said the experience helped shape her understanding of what it takes to build a program from the ground up.
She began coaching club volleyball before moving up to the college level. Her coaching path included time as a graduate assistant at Concordia Irvine, where she also earned a master’s degree in coaching and athletic administration. Coy later worked at San Diego State University as director of operations, gaining valuable experience behind the scenes of a Division I program.
Coy said she came to realize her passion was not in administration.
“Being behind a desk 9 to 5… was not the lifestyle for me,” she said. “I truly missed volleyball and being around the student athletes.”
Her path to Grossmont came through a long-time connection with Jamie Ivers, who encouraged her to apply when the position opened. Coy said she was eager for the opportunity, especially because it allowed her to stay in San Diego, where she has built her life.
Now in charge of the program, Coy is putting her focus on the team’s future rather than the past.
“My goal for the program this year is to be competitive,” Coy said. “It would be great to win championships, but it starts with the people you have.”
Coy said one of her top priorities is getting to know her players, understanding their strengths and helping them improve. With several weeks before the season begins, she said she is especially looking forward to the training period, which will give her more time than usual to work with the team.
“We’re going to have six weeks of training… to get everyone on the same page,” she said.
Looking ahead, Coy’s goals go beyond immediate success. She wants to create a program that prepares athletes for the next level, both on and off the court. A key part of her vision is helping players transfer to four-year schools while continuing their volleyball careers.
Coy said she hopes to build a reputation where college recruiters look to Grossmont for experienced, well-trained athletes. She believes junior college programs play a key role in preparing players for higher levels of competition.
With a roster that includes both returning players and many new recruits, Coy understands the challenges ahead. Still, she remains focused on creating a competitive and supportive team culture.
“I’m excited to get everyone on the same page and really grind it out,” she said.
Looking ahead, Coy’s goals are clear: Build a competitive team, develop strong athletes and compete for championships. With a clear vision and strong background, Coy is ready to lead the team into its next era.
