Kapales Named Inaugural Women’s Volleyball Head Coach

JACKSON, TENN. – Following a nationwide search, Jackson State Community College (JSCC) has selected Alexis Kapales as the first head coach for the inaugural women's volleyball program. Kapales, a driven and accomplished coach with experience as both a player and a coach, will lead the charge to build a dominant and thriving program at Jackson State.

Kapales most recently served as an Assistant Volleyball Coach at Labette Community College in Parsons, Kansas. There, she played an instrumental role in developing practice plans, recruiting top talent, and coaching the team to their first-ever NJCAA Division I win.

Prior to her career as a coach, she developed an extensive resume as a professional player, competing overseas with OK Rudar Pljevlja in Montenegro, as well as her work with the USA Volleyball Tour and various volleyball camps. She also completed an internship with the Strength and Conditioning program at Saint Peter's University, further strengthening her ability to support the physical development of her players now as a coach.

"I am truly honored and excited to serve as Jackson State's first Volleyball Head Coach," said Kapales. "To join an already established program is one thing, but to build a program from the ground-up into a dominant force in the region, I think that's even more exciting. I have set a high bar for this program that I know we can achieve. We're laying the groundwork for a culture of excellence, both as people and as athletes. My goal is to see our players develop in an environment that pushes them to be better players, leaders, and people. A strong, dominant program that reflects our community's values simply follows suit."

Kapales has served in numerous leadership roles, including as the Captain of the Saint Peter's NCAA Division I Women's Volleyball Team, where she further honed her leadership abilities. Her experience extends beyond the court as well, with significant contributions to the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and a passion for mental health awareness.

"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Kapales to the Jackson State family," said Dr. Kevin Lynum, Athletic Director at Jackson State Community College. "Her passion for volleyball, combined with her leadership experience, both as a player and a coach, will be invaluable as we build and grow the volleyball program at Jackson State. We are confident she will help us create a competitive and inclusive environment for our student-athletes."

Kapales holds a bachelor's degree in Sports Education/Coaching from Gardner-Webb University, where she was a standout player for the Women's Volleyball team. During her time at Gardner-Webb, she was recognized for her leadership skills, serving on the leadership board for the Women's Volleyball Team and excelling academically with a 3.9 GPA, earning Dean's List honors. She is now actively working to complete her master's degree from Pittsburg State University.

Kapales's appointment marks a significant milestone in the development of Jackson State's athletics programs, and she is eager to begin working with the college's athletes, staff, and community.

Coach will be available for comments on November 21 during a press conference. More information will be released closer to this date.