Loyola Marymount University’s assistant volleyball coach, Soquel High graduate, Natalie Morgan has been selected as an assistant coach with the College National Team (CNT). The CNT is “pretty much the Most Valuable Players of the college-aged athletes in volleyball,” according to Natalie.
A 2010 graduate of Soquel High School, Natalie earned a B.A. In Exercise and Sports Science and a Master’s in educational psychology from Oregon State University. She has been playing volleyball since eighth grade and has been coaching for six years.
Natalie, who worked and volunteered for the Women’s National Team, was selected by head coach Chris Tamas as one of his assistant coaches for the 12-member squad going to China in May. On the schedule for Team USA will be tryouts for the National Team that will go to the Olympics.
“I’m really excited to be a part of this international effort for Team USA and for the Pan America Cup,” said Natalie. “Although I’m now based in L.A., Santa Cruz will always be my home. I am so thankful to have grown up there. The community, the environment, and my family have taught me there is always something to learn and room to grow. This outlook has gotten me far in my career and will continue to help me in my life.”
After the China trip, Natalie will be the volunteer technical coordinator traveling to the Dominican Republic in July, with the graduated college players who currently play in a tournament against players from various countries in the Pan American Cup. Again, her team will be trying out for the National Team.
Way to go, Natalie, and good luck in your volleyball coaching career!