Ankeny assistant volleyball coach Sam Sheldon felt like she was ready to take over her own program.
Now, she’ll be able to do just that.
Sheldon has been named the head coach at Pella High School, pending school board approval.
“I feel very ready to serve their community and lead this program,” said Sheldon.
Sheldon has been an assistant coach at Ankeny for the last five years, including the varsity assistant coach since 2019. She has helped the Hawkettes to five state tournament appearances, three conference championships and a Class 5A state title in 2020.
Sheldon graduated from Johnston High School and played in college at Coe. She coached at Knoxville for two years before coming to Ankeny.
“We couldn’t be more excited for the future of Pella volleyball under the leadership of coach Sheldon,” said Pella Activities Director Matt Fouch. “Coach Sheldon has an extensive background in volleyball and has an unmatched passion for developing her student-athletes into great people. It was very evident in coach Sheldon’s interview and throughout the hiring process that she prioritizes relationships above all else. Her combination of relationship building and volleyball success and expertise makes her the perfect fit for Pella volleyball, Pella High School and the entire Pella community.”
Pella posted a 19-13 record last season. The Dutch made four consecutive state tournament appearances from 2015-18.
“I’m very grateful for how everything has came together,” Sheldon said. “They seem to have a lot of talent and some great kids that I’m excited to work with and continue to develop.”