Dani Kohut Lynch has some big shoes to fill.
Fortunately, she has some big shoes of her own.
Kohut Lynch, a former St. Cloud State player and Luther College head coach, has been hired to replace legendary Ankeny volleyball coach Dave Whims.
“I’m so excited,” said Kohut Lynch. “The tradition at Ankeny is so rich. I don’t have to re-invent the wheel or anything like that.”
Kohut Lynch, a native of Canada, spent seven seasons at Luther before moving to Johnston with her family. She then coached Waukee High School for two years before taking a break to spend more time with her young kids.
“It just made sense to step away for a bit. And then COVID hit,” she said. “But after being away from the game for awhile, my heart started tugging at me. Our girls are older now, and they love coming to the gym. It seemed like a good time to come back.”
Whims retired in January after coaching Ankeny for 18 seasons over two stints. He guided the Hawkettes to five state titles and is the state’s all-time winningest male coach with a record of 1,079-183.
Kohut Lynch jumped at the opportunity to replace Whims.
“I didn’t really like coaching against (Ankeny),” Kohut Lynch said. “I’m really going to enjoy coaching for them now.”
Ankeny Activities Director Andy Umthun said Kohut Lynch emerged from a strong pool of candidates for the position.
“We are excited to have Danielle take the reins of the Hawkette volleyball program,” Umthun said. “Her experience will be a great asset as we continue to build upon this prestigious program.”
Ankeny posted a 40-6 record last season. The Hawkettes reached the Class 5A semifinals before losing to eventual champion Pleasant Valley.
Several key players will be back in the fall, including sophomore middle hitter Aowyn Schrader and junior setter Jesa Wallace.
“I’m in a really good position here,” Kohut Lynch said. “I’m excited to see what we can do.”
Kohut Lynch might even consult with Whims occasionally.
“Hopefully, I can pick his brain once in a while and see what works and what doesn’t,” she said. “I’d like to grab a cup of coffee, and we can talk some volleyball.”
