Emma Gooden
How long have you been coaching volleyball, and what inspired you to get started?
I’ve been coaching volleyball for the past 3–4 years with experience in all age groups. My journey with the sport started back in fifth grade, and I played year-round through school, for national club and sand teams, and eventually at the collegiate level. When my college career ended, I knew I wanted to keep volleyball in my life because it has always been my passion—second to helping others. Once my schedule allowed, I began coaching, and it’s been an incredible way to stay connected to the sport that has shaped so much of who I am.
What do you enjoy or look forward to about coaching for Alpha?
What I’m most looking forward to about coaching with Alpha Volleyball Club is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with both the players and their families. I’m excited to support athletes in their journeys—not only helping them grow in their skills on the court, but also encouraging their development as individuals. I want to instill an athlete’s mindset, teach lessons that go beyond the game, and help them discover the same passion and love for volleyball that has always been such a big part of my life.
How do you approach developing athletes both on and off the court?
I approach developing athletes both on and off the court with empathy, care, and sometimes tough love. Having been in their shoes—experiencing every level of volleyball and the highs and lows that come with it—I understand how important it is to be mindful of how I treat and talk to my players, because those moments stick with them. I make it clear that I’m there for them, not just as athletes but as individuals. On the court, I emphasize fundamentals, confidence, hard work, discipline, and teamwork to help them build skill and confidence. Off the court, I encourage accountability, resilience, fostering relationships, and leadership—qualities that serve them in life beyond volleyball. My ultimate goal is to create an environment where athletes can grow in their game while also developing the character and mindset that will benefit them far into the future.
What can athletes and their families expect when they join your team in terms of development and growth?
When athletes and families join my team, they can expect a fun-loving yet competitive atmosphere where players are pushed to reach their full potential. I believe in holding athletes to the standard of what they are truly capable of, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones, and developing into well-rounded players—not only physically, but mentally as well. Growth happens through the little wins that add up to the bigger picture, and I celebrate both individual progress and the team’s success as a family. Families can also expect open communication, a positive culture, and a coach who is deeply invested in each athlete’s journey, both on and off the court. Every player, regardless their position, is important and I want them to know that. The two things I require from my athletes are the two “E’s.” I tell them that as long as they bring me energy and effort, I can help them with the rest. Those are the two things they are required to bring to every practice and game if they expect a fun and successful season with growth.
What’s your favorite drill or coaching technique, and why do you love using it?
My favorite coaching approach isn’t tied to just one drill, but to the purpose behind each drill I choose. Every drill I run is intentional—it’s not just for fun, but to help athletes develop a strategic, athlete-minded mentality. Whether it’s practicing different sets, running plays, serving to zones, or breaking skills down to the basics like footwork, approaches, and hand placement, I want players to understand the “why” behind what we do. I also incorporate conditioning drills, like the bounce drill, to keep athletes quick, agile, and athletic. Teamwork is another big focus for me, so I use drills that emphasize communication and collaboration such as basic scrimmaging or “wash” that help players feel comfortable competing and communicating with everyone on the court. Since I’m very competitive, I especially enjoy high-energy, competitive drills that push athletes outside their comfort zones. I also believe in repetition—using drills consistently so players can see their progress and growth from practice to practice.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve received as an athlete or coach that you still carry with you today?
There was a point in my life when I had played on a club team with the same girl for three years, she was from a different county and club had brought us together. We had become best friends- inseparable on and off the court. She was not only an incredible athlete, but also an even better person, and she constantly inspired me. Tragically, during one of our club seasons, she passed away on the way to one of our tournaments. Volleyball completely changed for me in that moment—what brought us together was also the reason she was no longer here. I wanted to quit because it was so hard to show up without her, but I’ll never forget her dad telling me in the hospital: “Do it for Emily. If anything, do it for Emily. She loved you, and she loved this sport. Don’t give up, she would hate that. You need to continue for her and for yourself.”
That became my “why,” and from then on my love for volleyball grew even stronger. The big takeaway I carry with me is to never forget your why- in sports and in life, because that’s what keeps you going when things get hard. I also learned that you never know what someone else is going through, so it’s important to move with grace and have patience with your teammates if they’re struggling.
My advice to athletes is this: play with purpose, give everything you have, and cherish the relationships the game brings you—because those are what truly last beyond the sport.