The Cassville volleyball program has a new coach at the helm, one who is no stranger to the Big 8 Conference.

Paige Huddleston was a three-sport athlete for the Aurora Houn’ Dawgs before she made her college volleyball debut. In the fall, she will be the Cassville High School head volleyball coach.

Huddleston’s collegiate volleyball career included time on the court at both Seminole State College and College of the Ozarks. While in college, she also coached two Club Bear Volleyball teams, currently Apex Volleyball, based out of Springfield. Both teams were a part of the 15-yearold age division.

“We are excited to welcome coach Huddleston to Cassville,” said Doug Martin, Cassville athletics director. “We believe her high school and college athletic career paired with her coaching experience will make her a great addition to our district.”

Martin said finding applicants has been challenging in recent years, and only five applied for the position. Two were interviewed, and it was Huddleston’s energy that drove her to the top.

“Her enthusiasm and love for the game was apparent,” Martin said. “Here’s a young, motivated woman who you could tell coming in wants to work hard. She will be a 110 percent person from day one, so we feel comfortable with her leading our volleyball program.”

Huddleston’s past as an athlete also played a part.

“Her references were glowing about her as an athlete,” Martin said. “She’s a three-sport athlete in high school and played four years of college volleyball. She’s done some coaching on the club level, but this will be her first high school head coaching job. There were nothing but great things to say about her ability to lead a program.”

Huddleston and her husband, Bryce, relocated to the Cassville area in February 2021 to be closer to family. Her family owns and operates The Barn at Bear Ridge, located on Highway 76. Huddleston serves as the Event Manager for the family business.

“She will sub for us and head coach, as he job allows her the time to be everywhere,” Martin said.

She also has a degree in Animal Science and Agricultural Business from the College of the Ozarks.

“I am honored to have this opportunity to make a positive impact on the girls both on and off the court,” Huddleston said. “I am anxious to get in the gym and start working toward our goals for the program. I am proud to be a member of Wildcat Nation!”