By: Adam Freeman
A new era is set to begin for the Tucker County High School Lady Mountain Lions volleyball program as Megan Helmick has been named the team’s new head coach.
Helmick, who serves as assistant principal at Tucker Valley Elementary Middle School, accepted the position after carefully considering the opportunity that became available this past winter. Joining her on the sidelines will be assistant coach Valerie Eye as the pair look to build a competitive and unified program.
“The position at the high school had opened up this winter. I thought long and hard on it before finally deciding I would take the position and bring Valerie Eye with me,” Helmick said. “I know there is a lot of good talent in this county, and I want to see it through.”
Helmick’s coaching philosophy centers on commitment, effort, and making every opportunity count.
“My philosophy is show up, work hard, show effort, and every ball matters,” she said.
Having watched many of the incoming players compete against one another over the past three years, Helmick is excited to finally bring them together as teammates. Preparation will begin immediately during flex days with conditioning, skill development, drills, and scrimmages.
“I have watched the freshman girls face each other for three years, cheering all the girls on, knowing they would be together one day,” Helmick said. “The girls know they have to put time in on and off the court.”
For her first season, Helmick’s goals extend beyond the scoreboard. She hopes to develop a close-knit group that enjoys playing together while continuing to improve throughout the season.
“The goals I have for this year are to develop a cohesive team of girls who want to play and play well together,” she said. “Also, winning a few games would be nice too.”
Helmick and Eye place a strong emphasis on team chemistry and trust, believing those qualities are just as important as athletic ability.
“Volleyball is a game of skill and trust,” Helmick explained. “At the beginning of the season, the girls will set personal and team goals. We will revisit these goals after each game.”
She also made it clear what the coaching staff expects from every player who wears the black and gold.
“Our players are wearing black and gold representing Tucker County High School,” Helmick said. “They know our expectations are to check your attitude at the door, we have no time for that, and leave the drama at home. We expect them to show up, put effort in, and play volleyball.”
As the Lady Mountain Lions prepare for the upcoming season, Helmick is optimistic about what lies ahead.
“We are looking forward to the new adventure and representing Tucker County High School,” she said. “The future of volleyball is promising.”
Fun Fact: While Helmick has moved three different times throughout her life, she has always lived on the same street.
