Lindsborg, Kan. – The Bethany College Department of Athletics has announced that Deedra Woodbury will be the next Head Volleyball Coach for the Swedes.
“We are thrilled to welcome Deedra Woodbury as our Head Volleyball Coach. She is a tremendous fit for Bethany College and our Department of Athletics,” said Dean of Athletics Laura Moreno. “Her passion for building, competing, and developing young women into leaders aligns with our mission and vision for the program.”
Deedra Woodbury comes to Bethany College with plenty of experience and success in her career. Most recently, Woodbury was an assistant coach for the Neosho County Community College Panthers, where she coached two All-Conference players, including one who ranked #11 in the nation in kills. She also helped lead the Panthers to a 22-13 record, earning an at-large bid to the NJCAA National Championships.
Before joining Neosho, Coach Woodbury was the head coach for the Buhler High School Crusaders for five seasons. While with the Crusaders, Coach Woodbury led and managed a 4A high school volleyball program. In her final season, she led the program to a 21-17 record, secured the league title by going 10-0 in league-play, broke three school records, and earned League Coach of the Year honors.
In July 2011, Deedra Woodbury got her start in coaching with the Nickerson High School Panthers. During her time with the Panthers, she guided the team to four state championship appearances, including a third-place finish in 2016 and a second-place finish in 2017. Coach Woodbury was also named Kansas Volleyball Association 4A Coach of the Year in 2017.
“Coach Woodbury has proven success building programs into strong competitors, and her wide network of connections, from high school to club to college, will have an immediate positive impact on our volleyball program,” said Moreno. “We are excited to welcome her to the Swedes!”
Outside of coaching high school and college, Deedra Woodbury started and coached Salt City Smash VBC, LLC, which is a club volleyball organization designed to help young volleyball athletes gain exposure and experience for the next step in their careers. Woodbury oversaw all aspects of operations, coached teams, and ensured compliance with USA Volleyball including coach credentialing and website management.
“I am excited for the opportunity to help shape a strong, positive, and unified culture at Bethany College,” said newly named Head Volleyball Coach Deedra Woodbury. “My sincere thanks go to Dean of Athletics, Laura Moreno, Assistant Athletic Director, Luke Samford, and the search committee for trusting me to lead this program. The warmth and support of this community have been remarkable, and I’m eager to contribute in a meaningful way.”
Woodbury holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Administration from William Penn University.
