Stahl brings high expectations to Elkins volleyball
New volleyball coach has proven track record of success
From the outside it may look like James Stahl simply is going from a proven volleyball program to a lesser one. Make no mistake. Stahl knows exactly what he is doing.
Stahl has been hired as the coach at Elkins, which has struggled the last two seasons and has not had a winning record since 2009. That is a far cry from what Stahl built at Alvin the previous five years. He led the Yellowjackets to the postseason each of the last three years. Two years ago they went to the regional semifinals.
Elkins’ recent history was actually a plus for Stahl, who embraces the challenge of getting a program back on track.
“I like that part more than I like more than taking over a program that is supposed to be a power,” he said. “There is a great opportunity for this program to get better. As a teacher and coach you’re always looking for a better teaching opportunity and growth for the future. Elkins presented itself that way.”
Elkins is in a similar position now to what Alvin was in before Stahl took over in 2010. Alvin had made the playoffs only once in the previous six seasons. In Stahl’s first year at Alvin the team won fewer than 10 matches and did not win any in district play. The last two years the Yellowjackets were among the toughest outs in the Region III playoffs.
“Elkins used to be a powerhouse,” Stahl said. “It has struggled over the last couple of years so it will be cool to go back and rebuild the team chemistry and the excitement within the program.”
He said his the first things he will focus on do not have to do with oncourt details. He wants to find players and coaches who have great character and want to excel in the classroom as well as on the court.
“My goal will be to make
sure I’m surrounded by kids and coaches who are completely devoted to achieving greateness,” Stahl said. “If they want to work hard every day then wins will come and hopefully the playoffs after that. I just want to prepare these kids for the future.”
Fort Bend Travis hires football coach
Trey Sissom, who coached Bellaire for the last three seasons, has been hired as the football coach at Travis. He replaces Randy Cunningham, who had coached the team since the school opened in 2006. Sissom’s teams were known for offense. Last year’s team amassed more than 5,000 yards of total offense and averaged 45.5 points per game. The Cardinals made the playoffs in all three years under Sissom.