In a significant move for the College of Southern Idaho (CSI) volleyball program, the school has officially promoted Andria Harshman from interim head coach to the full-time head coach, removing the “interim” label that has defined her tenure since July 2024. This announcement, made on December 9, 2024, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Golden Eagles volleyball team, and Harshman is poised to build on the team’s tradition of excellence and create a lasting legacy at CSI.
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A New Beginning for CSI Volleyball
Andria Harshman’s promotion comes after a tumultuous period for the CSI volleyball team. The Golden Eagles finished the fall season with a disappointing 9-17 record, a result of ongoing struggles with injuries and inconsistent play. The team failed to make it to the NJCAA national tournament for the fifth time in six years, an outcome that highlighted the need for a shift in direction. Despite these challenges, Harshman’s leadership as interim coach demonstrated promise, as she navigated the team through a difficult season while maintaining a focus on player development, both on and off the court.
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Speaking about her new role, Harshman expressed her gratitude and excitement in a press release: “I am honored and excited to take on the role of head coach at such a prestigious institution. This is a place rich in tradition, talent, and opportunity, and I am committed to building on that legacy, developing student-athletes not only in their sport but also in their character, and striving for excellence both on and off the court.” Harshman’s words reflect her dedication to the holistic development of her players and her deep understanding of the values that drive the CSI volleyball program.
The Path to CSI: A Strong Coaching Background
Harshman’s appointment as head coach is not only a reflection of her abilities as a leader but also of her impressive coaching career. Before taking on the interim role at CSI, Harshman had already accumulated a wealth of experience in the volleyball coaching world. She served as the head coach at Twin Falls High School from 2018 to 2020, where she made a lasting impact on the program and helped elevate the school’s volleyball team. Additionally, Harshman has been the club director at the Southern Idaho Volleyball Academy, further cementing her place in the local volleyball community.
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Before moving to Twin Falls, Harshman had an extensive coaching career at the collegiate level. She spent seven years as the head coach at Grace College and two years as the head coach at Colorado Christian University. These experiences at the collegiate level equipped her with the skills necessary to manage and lead a Division I volleyball program like CSI, where the competition is fierce, and the expectations are high.
Her diverse background, spanning high school, club, and collegiate volleyball, has provided her with a deep understanding of the game and an ability to adapt her coaching strategies to meet the needs of her athletes. Harshman’s leadership style is characterized by a focus on player development, building team cohesion, and fostering a positive team culture. These qualities are exactly what CSI needs to return to its former glory.
A Strong Foundation Moving Forward
Despite the challenges the team faced in the 2024 season, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the future under Harshman’s leadership. The Golden Eagles will return several key players for the 2025 season, including Scenic West Athletic Conference (SWAC) Libero of the Year Hazuna Akishige and All-SWAC selection Mina Benucci. These athletes will provide a solid foundation for the team as they look to rebound from a difficult season.
Harshman’s ability to motivate her players and build on their strengths will be crucial as she works to turn the program around. In her press release, CSI athletic director Daequon Montreal emphasized Harshman’s leadership qualities, stating, “She embodies the leadership and dedication that align with the values of our athletic department and institution. I am confident that under her guidance, our volleyball team will continue to grow and achieve great success.” This vote of confidence from the athletic director is a strong indication of the faith that CSI has in Harshman’s abilities to lead the Golden Eagles back to prominence.
One of Harshman’s primary goals will be to improve the team’s overall performance and ensure that CSI returns to the NJCAA national tournament. Her focus on incremental improvement – aiming to get “1-2% better every day” – will be key in driving the team’s success in the upcoming seasons. Harshman understands that sustained success requires hard work, dedication, and attention to detail, and she is committed to instilling these values in her players.
The Importance of Culture and Character
Beyond the Xs and Os of volleyball, Harshman places a strong emphasis on developing the character of her athletes. She believes that athletics is not just about winning games but about creating individuals who will succeed in life. This philosophy aligns with CSI’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both in their sport and in their academic pursuits.
Harshman’s leadership is about more than just strategy; it’s about building a culture of accountability, teamwork, and perseverance. These values will be crucial as she works to elevate the program and inspire the next generation of CSI volleyball players. The Golden Eagles have a rich tradition, and Harshman’s appointment signals that the program is ready to embrace a new era of success.
The Road Ahead for CSI Volleyball
Looking ahead, Harshman’s task is clear: to return CSI volleyball to its place among the elite programs in the NJCAA. The challenges will be significant, but Harshman’s experience and determination are likely to be the driving forces behind the program’s resurgence. With a strong recruiting class, the return of key players, and the leadership of a coach who has seen success at every level, CSI volleyball is poised for a bright future.
For the Golden Eagles, Harshman’s removal of the “interim” title signifies more than just a promotion – it represents a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to building a championship-caliber team. The 2025 season will be an exciting one for the program, as Harshman looks to lead the Golden Eagles back to the top of the Scenic West Athletic Conference and beyond. With her passion, experience, and vision for the future, Andria Harshman is the right coach to take CSI volleyball into the next chapter of its storied history.
A Bright Future Ahead for CSI Volleyball Under Harshman’s Leadership
In conclusion, Andria Harshman’s appointment as the full-time head coach of CSI volleyball is a significant moment for the program. Her impressive coaching background, combined with her commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court, makes her the ideal person to lead the Golden Eagles into the future. As she works to rebuild the program and achieve long-term success, Harshman’s leadership will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s success. The road ahead may be challenging, but with Harshman at the helm, CSI volleyball is poised for a bright and prosperous future.
