Debbie Schendel is entering her second year at the helm of both the men’s and women’s volleyball teams at Cairn. Schendel joined the Highlanders prior to the 2015-16 season after coaching primarily in the club ranks since 2010.
On the floor, Schendel had a stellar high-school career that included multiple All-conference, All-State, and All-Tournament honors before earning the Most Valuable Player award for the state of Montana after her senior season. The Great Falls, Mont. native attended Dawson Community College (Glendive, Mont.) for her freshman year and earned Mon-Dak All Conference Freshman of the Year honors before transferring to Nyack College where she finished her playing career. Schendel ended her collegiate career with over 1,500 digs, 1,000 kills, and 150 aces from the outside hitter position.
Even while playing collegiately Schendel was coaching on the side leading the U18 Glendive Volleyball Club in 2010-11, the U14, U15, U16, and U17 Scarsdale Volleyball Club from 2011-14, and the Arsenal Volleyball Club in 2014-15. Schendel was an instrumental part of helping to grow the Scarsdale Volleyball Club, which had recently started when she joined the coaching staff. During her four years the programs grew from three teams to six competitive girls teams and one boys team.
“I love the sport of volleyball, and I want my athlete's to learn to play the game at their greatest capacity; however, character is everything,” said Schendel of volleyball and her coaching philosophy. “I want my athlete's to walk away from their experience of playing for me with a greater sense of self, of community, and of purpose.”
“As Christians competing in athletics, I want my athlete's to learn to consistently pursue excellence with the talents and passions that God has equipped them with, as a means of glorifying Him.”
In addition to coaching both the men’s and women’s teams, Schendel oversees the fitness center at Cairn. Schendel currently lives in Langhorne, Pa.
