2026 August LOVB Coaches of the Month

The best coaches do more than teach the game: they show up for their athletes, lead by example, and create experiences that stay with players long after the season ends. This month, we’re recognizing a group of coaches who have done exactly that.

August’s LOVB Coaches of the Month have stepped up when needed, led athletes through unforgettable experiences, celebrated growth and success, and helped build positive, connected communities within their clubs. From achieving success on the national and international stage to making sure every athlete feels supported and valued, their impact is felt in countless ways both on and off the court. 

Here’s what their clubs had to say about the incredible impact they’re making.

Nick Gibson - Aspire

“He is team-first all the time. Will step up for boys and girls players to make sure they get the best experience possible. Nick stepped in as a head coach for Aspire 17 Alpha after the head coach got a D1 job. He led our 17s to an open bid in Reno, 5th place finish at Summer NIT competing against the best in the country. He also led our team to a top 30 in the nation finish all while also assisting our 17-1 boys team that is one of the top 10 teams in the country.”

Zach Watson - Stars Carolinas

“Zach played a huge role in the success of our first international LOVB trip where the team competed in the global challenge. With Zach's leadership and coaching the team was able to finish second in the tournament, more importantly he created a positive experience for all the athletes on the team and they were able to walk away with life long memories. On top of all the work that Zach did from the sideline, he also crushed all the content capture and social media work along the way. We are so grateful for Zach and the extra time and care he put in with the team in Europe!”

Helen Lin - A5 

“Helen led our first international trip with LOVB club athletes from around the country. The team had an amazing experience getting to travel to three different countries and competing against teams from all over the world. On top of Helen creating a great experience for the athletes, the team also took second in the tournament that they competed in. Helen's care for the athletes and ability to share her deep knowledge of the game is why she has been nominated as this month's coach of the month.”

Devin Derecho - RedRock Volleyball

“Devin is the kind of coach who makes everyone around her better. She leads with positivity, integrity, and genuine care for her athletes, always putting their growth and well-being first. She collaborates effortlessly with fellow coaches, willingly steps in wherever she is needed, and creates an environment where players feel supported, challenged, and valued. Her dedication, compassion, and team-first mindset have a lasting impact on our athletes and coaching staff, making LOVB a stronger community because she is part of it.”

Curtis Yoder - Tstreet 

“Curtis Yoder has been a staple at Tstreet Volleyball for nearly 20 years. He brings “high fives and good vibes” to our gym and is renowned for his attention to the mechanics of the game that develop our young athletes for the future. On his 12-1’s this season he pushed the team to reach for their potential through consistent training and roster decision making that maximized the teams talent and led them to a Gold medal at USAV nationals in Minneapolis! Tstreet could not be more proud of the work he’s put in and are grateful not just for this great season but his long standing commitment to Tstreet and its culture of ‘Breathe, Believe, Battle.’”

Taylor Limon - Chi City 

“Taylor Limon has made an incredible impact on her players. Even in her first year of coaching, she proved to be a natural leader who inspired confidence, fostered growth, and brought out the best in her team. What she accomplished is truly priceless, and she is more than deserving of this recognition.”

Katlynn Wirag - VC United

“Katlynn exemplifies LOVB's value of Community & Collaboration through the relationships she builds with her athletes, fellow coaches, and families. She understands that success isn't achieved individually—it comes from creating an environment where everyone feels supported, valued, and connected. She is always willing to collaborate with other coaches, share ideas, and do what's best for the program as a whole, not just her own teams.

Within her teams, Katlynn fosters a culture of trust, accountability, and encouragement. She empowers her athletes to support one another, celebrate each other's successes, and grow together through challenges. Her positive attitude, willingness to help wherever needed, and commitment to putting the team first have strengthened the VC United community and made a meaningful impact on everyone around her. Through her actions every day, Katlynn brings the value of Community & Collaboration to life.”