Kathy DeBoer has been one of the most influential leaders in collegiate athletics and volleyball in the United States. Serving as the Executive Director of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) from 2006 to 2023, she oversaw the tremendous growth of the sport across all levels, helping volleyball become one of the most popular participation sports for women in the country. Under her leadership, AVCA membership grew significantly, national events expanded in scope and visibility, and the organization became a driving force for advancing the game of volleyball in both the indoor and beach formats.

DeBoer’s path to leadership was rooted in her own athletic and coaching background. A multi-sport athlete, she played basketball and volleyball at Michigan State University, earning All-Big Ten honors. Following her playing career, she went on to coach Division I women’s volleyball, including a successful stint as head coach at the University of Kentucky, where her teams achieved national rankings and NCAA Tournament appearances. She later moved into athletic administration, holding key roles at the University of Kentucky and later at the University of Louisville, gaining a reputation as a thoughtful, innovative, and athlete-centered leader.

As Executive Director of the AVCA, DeBoer championed opportunities for coaches and athletes at all levels. She spearheaded initiatives to increase television exposure for the sport, expand recruiting resources, and provide professional development for coaches. A passionate advocate for gender equity, she also worked to elevate the conversation around women in leadership and the advancement of women’s sports in the broader collegiate landscape.

Beyond her organizational leadership, DeBoer is a highly regarded speaker and writer. She has presented nationally on topics such as coaching, leadership, and equity in athletics, and her articles and insights have influenced administrators, coaches, and athletes alike. She is widely respected not only for her impact on volleyball, but also for her role in shaping the dialogue on fairness, inclusion, and growth in collegiate athletics.

Kathy DeBoer’s career reflects her lifelong commitment to sport as a vehicle for opportunity, leadership, and community. Her legacy is seen in the sustained growth of volleyball, the development of thousands of coaches, and the countless athletes whose experiences have been shaped by her vision and advocacy.

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