Stika Takes Over Griffin Program
Fontbonne University women's volleyball coach Ryan LeGrand has announced his resignation to pursue another opportunity. Head men's volleyball coach Jimmy Stika will take over the next head women's volleyball coach.
In four seasons, Coach LeGrand went 33-63 overall and guided the Griffins to two consecutive SLIAC Tournament appearances. During the 2020-21 season, Coach LeGrand became the third coach in program history to win SLIAC Coach of the Year.
"It's my privilege to promote Jimmy to head of our women's program," said Director of Athletics Danielle Doerfler. "He has continued to elevate, increase, and push the standard for our men's program, while demonstrating his willingness to be a team player within our department."
"His volleyball knowledge, organization, and passion will be well utilized to continue to also elevate our women's program within the SLIAC. Jimmy has earned this opportunity and I look forward to watching him continue to develop Fontbonne Athletics with this additional role."
In his two seasons at the helm of the men's program, Coach Stika has guided the Griffins to a 39-10 overall record and going 23-1 in the Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League (MCVL).
He led the Griffins to an MCVL Tournament Title and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021. Last season, the Griffins won its first MCVL Regular Season Title and went a perfect 8-0 in conference play. Coach Stika won his first MCVL Co-Coach of the Year award in 2022 and was named to the AVCA "30 Under 30" list.
"I want to thank Director of Athletics Danielle Doerfler and Vice President of Athletics Maria Buckel for this opportunity to lead our women's program here at Fontbonne," said Stika. "I also want to thank Ryan LeGrand for all the hard work he's put in as head coach over the past four seasons and wish him the best of luck in the next chapter of his career"
He continued, "This team has made great strides over the past few years and I'm excited to help keep that positive momentum going. With the talent and experience currently on our roster, there's no doubt in my mind these ladies are set to do big things. We're looking forward to putting together a season that our fans, university, and the STL volleyball community can be proud of. Go Griffins!"
The Griffins get its 2022 season underway on September 1st with its home opener against WashU. Game time set for 7 p.m.
STORY COURTESY OF FONTBONNE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
