Head Coach
Heather Gearhart has announced the hiring of two-time AVCA All-American
Shannon Kasprak as the program’s new assistant volleyball coach.
Kasprak is joining the Eagles after finishing her professional volleyball career competing in the top league in Austria for TSV Sparkasse Hartberg.
“I am extremely excited to announce Shannon as our new assistant coach,” Gearhart said. "I couldn’t think of a better fit for our program and someone who will help drive the program to the next level. I watched Shannon play while she was in college and it was clear even then that she was a leader, winner, and uniquely driven. Throughout the interview process she exemplified an incredibly high volleyball IQ, investment in our program, and desire to help mentor the student-athletes. She comes as a decorated player from a very well-respected powerhouse of a program that is known for their culture and ability to develop future collegiate coaches. She will contribute to the program right away and we are fortunate to have her to help guide our players and program.”
Prior to her professional career, Kasprak was a five-year member of the Wingate University women’s volleyball team. During her time with the Bulldogs, Kasprak racked up numerous accolades at the national, conference, and university level. She was a two-time AVCA All-America, AVCA Southeast Regional Player of the Year, SAC Female Athlete of the Year, two-time SAC Conference Player of the Year, two-time SAC Tournament MVP, two-time Wingate Female Athlete of the Year, three-time SAC All-Conference honoree, and named to the NCAA All-Tournament Team.
Kasprak guided her team to five SAC regular-season titles and three 3 SAC Tournament titles with five NCAA postseason appearances.
The three-time All-SAC honoree and two-time SAC Player of the Year finished her career with 3,280 assists, 1,109 digs, 337 kills, 148 blocks and 147 aces, while compiling a 129-14 overall record with an 80-7 mark in SAC play.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Winthrop coaching staff!” Kasprak said. “Heather has built an incredible culture and program at Winthrop, and I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it. Every coach and mentor I've had the privilege of playing under has fueled my passion for volleyball and taught me invaluable life lessons. I'm excited to continue that legacy and help others grow in the same way. Go Eagles!”
Kasprak earned her bachelor’s in marketing from Wingate University. She is a native of Austin, Texas and competed for Austin Juniors Volleyball Club.
Shelton Collier, member of AVCA Hall of Fame and former Wingate Head Coach on Kasprak:
“It is awesome that Shannon will begin her coaching journey with such a successful DI opportunity. Shannon will bring a solid volleyball IQ, a sincere passion for the game, and some great personal qualities; all of which I am sure will add value to an already successful program.”
Lauren Tekavec, current Wingate Head Coach on Kasprak:
“Shannon's competitive nature is unmatched. As a student-athlete her passion to win was contagious, and I am confident she will bring the same energy and fire to the coaching staff at Winthrop. She has a wealth of knowledge on the setting position and has experience running and coaching an efficient and creative offense. We are so proud of Shannon as she takes this step in her career, and we are excited to see Winthrop compete this fall.”
