Shared Vision: Big Rapids Volleyball Embraces Co-Coaching for 2025 Season…Seem more…
Big Rapids High School is ushering in a new chapter in its volleyball program by appointing two familiar faces—Dale Wilhelm and Emily Van Culin—as co-head coaches for the upcoming 2025 season. This progressive move not only reflects the school’s commitment to player development but also signals a shift in coaching dynamics, aiming to build a more collaborative and flexible culture around the sport.
A New Era of Leadership
For the Cardinals, the decision to implement a co-coaching structure is both strategic and inspired. Dale Wilhelm brings with him a legacy of over two decades of coaching experience, including time in both youth and high school athletics. Emily Van Culin, a Big Rapids alumna and former standout volleyball player herself, complements Wilhelm’s expertise with her recent collegiate experience and strong rapport with current athletes.
“Dale and I have very different styles, but we’re aligned on the most important thing—developing these girls not just as athletes, but as leaders,” Van Culin explained during a recent open gym session.
Wilhelm agreed, emphasizing that “This is a team effort in every sense. We’re not dividing duties—we’re doubling up on support.”
Offseason Work Already Underway
While the official volleyball season doesn’t begin until August, the co-coaches wasted no time organizing structured open gym sessions throughout the summer. Held twice weekly at the high school gymnasium, these workouts are focused on everything from core fundamentals to advanced game strategies.
Participation has been enthusiastic. More than 25 athletes attended the first few sessions, showing up early, staying late, and displaying a hunger that’s impressed both coaches.
“We’re working on conditioning, rotations, communication—things that will be second nature come September,” said Wilhelm.
Van Culin added that while technical skills are essential, she and Wilhelm are equally invested in team chemistry. “These summer sessions are also about building trust,” she noted. “Trust in each other, in us, and in what we’re building.”
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
The choice to co-coach is somewhat unconventional in high school volleyball circles, where solo head coaches often call the shots. But Big Rapids athletic director Kevin Pollatz believes the approach could be a blueprint for other programs.
“Two heads are better than one, especially when both bring unique strengths,” Pollatz said. “Dale is a master tactician with decades of experience. Emily connects with players and brings a fresh, modern edge. Together, they create a full-circle experience.”
The coaching duo plans to experiment with new technologies as well, including video breakdown sessions and performance tracking apps that will help players visualize their progress.
“Kids today are digital natives,” said Van Culin. “We want to use that to our advantage and get them thinking critically about the game.”
Player Response Has Been Positive
While a new coaching structure can sometimes create uncertainty, early feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive. Juniors and seniors alike appreciate the increased individual attention and the different perspectives both coaches offer.
“I love it,” said junior setter Maya Jensen. “Coach Dale focuses on the mental side—reading the defense, anticipating plays. Coach Emily is always pushing us to compete and be aggressive. Together, it just works.”
Team captain and senior libero Alayna Marks echoed the sentiment: “They’re super approachable, and they listen to us. That makes a big difference.”
Looking Ahead: Expectations and Goals
The Cardinals finished last season with a respectable but unremarkable record, falling short in the district semi-finals. But with a strong returning core and new leadership, expectations are high for 2025.
“We’re not going to make bold predictions,” said Wilhelm. “But we believe in this group. We’re laying the groundwork for something sustainable, not just a one-year run.”
Van Culin agreed, noting that success isn’t just about wins and losses. “We want our players to graduate confident, resilient, and team-oriented. If we do that, the wins will come.”
The coaches have already set tangible goals for the season. Among them: improve team service percentage to 90%, reduce unforced errors per match, and increase team digs per set by at least 20% from last year.
Community Engagement Also a Focus
Beyond the court, Wilhelm and Van Culin are planning several community outreach events, including a volleyball clinic for local middle schoolers and a charity scrimmage night where proceeds will go toward equipment upgrades.
“We want to make Big Rapids volleyball something the entire community can rally behind,” said Van Culin.
The dual-leadership model reflects not just an evolution in coaching philosophy, but also in the way sports programs can become pillars of local identity and pride.
Final Thoughts
With Dale Wilhelm and Emily Van Culin at the helm, Big Rapids volleyball is poised for a season defined by unity, innovation, and a deep investment in the student-athletes’ futures. Whether on the court or off, their shared mission is clear: build a program that lasts—not just for a season, but for generations to come.
As preseason practice approaches in August, the Cardinals have more than just drills and scrimmages ahead. They have a unique opportunity to redefine what success means, under the steady guidance of two passionate and purpose-driven coaches.
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