Mission Statement:
At Thunderbolt Volleyball, our mission is to foster a lifelong love for the sport of volleyball while nurturing the physical, mental, and personal growth of our young athletes. We are dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive environment that prioritizes skill development, and character building. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the court, as we aim to empower each player with the tools they need to succeed not only in volleyball but also in life. Thunderbolt Volleyball is more than a youth sports organization; it’s a community where dreams take flight, teamwork prevails, and individuals thrive.
Jadwiga Graham
Founder, Exec Program Director,Coach
9-12, 13-15 Coed, Select Club 11U+
Originally from Poland, former player in High School and College, over 10 years of coaching experience in St. Louis and St. Charles area, extremely passionate about volleyball and young athlete’s development.
“I believe foundation skills are a catalyst to an energetic, fun, fast moving game! Ball handling is #1, then everything else falls in place. What I enjoy the most is when I make a right call about the player’s position (even if the player does not believe in her or himself) and later, the player discovers the power within herself and carries pride on their face! It’s an amazing feeling! I love seeing a positive impact on players!”
Amy Sowinski
Rec Program Director, Coach, 13-16 Coed, 13-16 Boys Only
Former High School player, current adult co-ed indoor and sand league player. Former Head JV Volleyball Coach and Assistant Varsity Volleyball Coach at Ocoee High School in Ocoee, FL. Known for serving strength, passionate about teaching good court communication and proper footwork. Eager to help young players refine skills to earn that spot on their desired team.
Brandy Larson
Coach, 13-15 Girls, Select Club 14U+
Former captain, setter, and all American for her Varsity High School State Championship team, which placed Nationally two years in a row! Brandy is an extremely cheerful coach with 5 years of experience, known for her excellent setting and serving skills.
“I love the game of Volleyball and look forward to watching that love develop in younger players.”
Privately, Brandy and her family of 5, love to travel and are always on the lookout for their next adventure! Her adventurous self, brings the passion to the volleyball court!!
Lauren Church
Coach, Select Club 13U+
Lauren has played volleyball for over 10 years and has been a captain and all-position player over her years. She continues to play both sand and indoor volleyball, and any sport she can try outside of coaching. Lauren has been a coach with us since winter 2020 and loves to help coach high school clinics.
“I love this sport because I continue to learn and find more things to make my team better. There is constantly ways to improve 🙂 “
Valerie Good
Coach, 9-12 Coed, 13-15 Coed
Valerie played volleyball all through middle and high school as an outside hitter and backrow specialist and she was also named All Conference two years in a row in high school. Valerie also played club/travel volleyball all through middle and high school where she primarily played the positions of setter and outside hitter. After high school Valerie could not give up the game so she continued to play recreational volleyball in several different leagues and assisted in several volleyball camps.
“I have a great passion and love for the game of volleyball and I am so excited to be able to share my skills and passion with the young athletes. Teaching the young athletes the fundamentals of the game and seeing the players improve brings great joy to me!” One of my biggest saying is “Play Hard & Have Fun!”
