Mindy Crawford has been named as the first Women's Volleyball Coach at Emmanuel College according to Director of Athletics Mike Bona. Crawford has previously served as assistant coach of both women's and men's volleyball programs at Warner University in Lake Wales, FL.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to coach at Emmanuel," said Crawford, I can't wait to get started." Crawford feels her greatest challenge facing her is the building of a brand new program from ground floor. "I am looking for just the right players that understand what Emmanuel is all about."
Crawford played volleyball at Lincoln Christian University, where she earned her bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. She has earned numerous honors in the sport of volleyball, including Two-time National Libero of the Year, All-American and All-Regional Honors as well as being a starter on the 2003 National Championship Team.  Before working at Emmanuel College Crawford was a Marketing and Event Coordinator for the Orlando Magic of the NBA.

Coach Crawford will begin recruiting immediately for the fall 2011 season. She will also begin her duties at the college as Athletic Event Coordinator.

Anyone who interested in joining the Emmanuel College Women's Volleyball program should contact Coach Crawford at mcrawford@ec.edu. 

Emmanuel College has named Edwin Ortiz as the women's volleyball assistant coach. Coach Ortiz is a member of the University of Georgia men's volleyball club team, who finished 5th at the 2011 national tournament.  During their recent season, Ortiz helped lead his team to a 15-5 record.  Ortiz will be the captain of the UGA men's volleyball club team for the 2011-2012 season.  

Before moving to Georgia, Ortiz was an assistant coach at Mater Charter High School in Hialeah, Florida.  Ortiz helped coach Mater to a district championship with a record of 20-8.  Ortiz was recruited and signed to play volleyball for Warner University in Lake Wales, Florida.  Ortiz was one of the first men's volleyball players in the history of his high school to be signed to play collegiate volleyball.

Ortiz has played a vital role in the beginning of the women's volleyball program at Emmanuel College by making connections with the many local club and high school coaches.   He will assist Coach Crawford in all aspects of the Lady Lions volleyball program.