Missouri State has chosen a familiar face to lead its newest sport, as former Bears indoor volleyball player Terri Del Conte was announced as beach volleyball head coach on June 7, 2017. MSU officially adds the sport on July 1, and begins competition in the spring of 2018.
“Missouri State University and volleyball have both given me so much,” said Del Conte. “I’m excited to now have the opportunity to give back by being a part of the first beach volleyball program in school history. There is a lot of potential to grow a new culture here in Springfield and my goal is to share my passion for this wonderful sport with the whole community. I’m here to start a positive movement.”
Del Conte, 30, has an extensive professional beach volleyball background, and currently holds a AAA rating in the California Beach Volleyball Association. She is also a competitor on the AVP Tour, and is a top-level player on the Endless Summer Volleyball Tour.
“We’re very excited to have Terri returning to Missouri State and launching our brand new program,” said Missouri State Director of Athletics Kyle Moats. “Her experience in playing and coaching the sport of beach volleyball makes her an ideal fit for our program, and we’re thrilled to have one of our own in the driver’s seat as we begin this new venture.”
Additionally, Del Conte has been the owner of Center Balance Training since 2011, and has coached numerous club and community volleyball teams in the Los Angeles area since graduating from MSU with a media studies degree in 2009.
Originally from Long Beach, Calif., Del Conte enjoyed a two-year playing career at Missouri State after transferring from junior college prior to the 2007 season. She ranks fifth in school history with a career average of 3.83 digs per set, while her 605 digs as a senior rank third on MSU’s single-season chart.
“Terri and I have come from similar backgrounds having both grown up in southern California and our love for the beach doubles volleyball game,” added MSU volleyball head coach Melissa Stokes. “Getting to coach Terri as an indoor player, with her passion and drive, there was no doubt in my mind she would be as successful as she is now playing and coaching. I am excited to work with Terri and grow our beach program here at Missouri State.”
Del Conte led the Bears in aces both seasons and served 70 in her career, was a team captain and Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete honorable mention pick in 2008, and helped MSU to the NCAA Tournament both seasons on campus. Her career high of 36 digs on Nov. 8, 2008, remains the No. 5 single-match total in school history, while her 973 career digs are the second-most for any MSU player in their first two seasons.
Press Release courtesy of Missouri State Athletics.
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