LEXINGTON, Ky. – Newly hired Union College head women's volleyball coach Annie DeLoid was recognized this week with the American Volleyball Coaches Association's prestigious Thirty Under 30 Award, recognizing some of the top young coaching talent in the country.
 
Founded in 2009, the AVCA Thirty Under 30 Award honors up-and-coming volleyball coaching talent at all levels of the sport. DeLoid is one of only three Division III women's head coaches to make the list this year.
 
"I am so honored to be recognized by the AVCA for this incredible award," said DeLoid, who started at Union this week after three years as the top assistant at Stevens Institute of Technology. "I am very thankful for my time at Stevens as it has prepared me for this next step in my career at Union. I would like to thank all of my mentors and my support system for constantly pushing me, challenging me and believing in me. I am beyond thankful for this recognition." 
 
In her three years at Stevens, DeLoid was a key part of the 2019 MAC Freedom Coaching Staff of the Year and helped guide the Ducks to a 48-18 record in two seasons, including a run to the NCAA Regional semifinals in 2019. She previously spent two years as an assistant coach at Averett University, helping the Cougars to a 48-19 record over that span.
 
"I am grateful for Union College for entrusting me with the women's volleyball program and seeing so much potential in me," DeLoid told the AVCA. "Aside from the winning side of volleyball, my goal as a coach is to continue inspiring young women to see and reach their potential. I always want volleyball to be something that enhances their collegiate experience, and I want them to leave after four years with lifelong friends, amazing memories and life lessons that will stick with them."
 
DeLoid's inaugural season with the Dutchwomen is set to begin in September. A full 2022 schedule will be released in the coming weeks.