WASHINGTON – Sarah Katz, a 2015 graduate of the American University volleyball team who won numerous academic honors in her time as an Eagle, has rejoined the AU volleyball program as an assistant coach, head coach Barry Goldberg announced today.
Katz will join the AU coaching staff that includes Goldberg, who will be in his 29th season at American in 2017, and Ahen Kim, who will be in his sixth season as an assistant.
"American University Volleyball has a legacy that is unparalleled," said Katz. "But what is more impressive is the drive and competitive nature of the players and team each year to move the program to new heights. I could not be more excited to be part of continuing the drive forward."
Most recently, Katz has been a volunteer assistant coach for the Eagles, helping AU win the 2016 Patriot League championship and advance to the NCAA Tournament. She mentored and assisted in player development.
She also worked as a senior administrative assistant in the AU Department of Health Studies, all while working toward her masters in health promotion management.
"Once my college volleyball career ended as a player, there was no question I wanted to stay connected to volleyball in my professional career," Katz said. "Preparing for this has been a part of my life since I started coaching in high school.
"Now, I am incredibly grateful that I not only have been provided the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level, but that it comes from someplace very close to my heart, American University.
"I would like to thank Coach Barry Goldberg, Dr. Billy Walker, all of AU Athletics, and all of my AU professors, in preparing me for this opportunity and welcoming me back."
"We're happy to have Sarah join our coaching staff," said Goldberg. "She has a history of great success here at American University, and I know she will be a valuable asset to our program."
Katz was a 6-foot-4 outside hitter during her playing days at American, which spanned from 2012 through 2015. She played in 123 matches for the Eagles, finishing with 602 kills, 408 digs and 122 blocks in her four seasons.
She had a career-high 18 kills and 12 digs in a match against Princeton in her junior season. She also had 16 kills in a match against No. 8 Florida State in 2014. Her career-best 18 digs came in a road victory at Bucknell in 2015.
The Eagles were 109-27 between 2012 and 2015, winning three Patriot League championships and advancing to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in 2013.
In March 2016, Katz was honored as American University's senior female student-athlete of the year with the department's highest grade-point average across all sports. She finished with a 3.95 GPA in health promotion and a minor in marketing.
She was a two-time Academic All-Patriot League selection and twice was voted to the Academic All-District Team by the College Sports Information Directors of America.
"As a previous AU player, I hope my voice and shared experiences can help the players through the steps needed to reach both their individual and team goals," said Katz. "With so many opportunities for success, from volleyball to professional dreams, I plan to help the student-athletes focus on being prepared for all of the tasks ahead."