By Daniel Johnson, Sports Editor
Twenty-three year-old head volleyball coach Kellen Mock understands the method of play to which the back-to-back Lone Star Conference Champion volleyball team has grown accustomed.
And why wouldn’t she?
After playing under the program’s winningest coach for four years, being third on the all-time digs list and team captain of the first conference champions in the history of the program, Mock is eager to begin her chapter as the program’s head coach.
Brek Horn resigned as head coach in May to spend more time with her family, leaving the program’s future up in the air.
Under Horn’s leadership the program evolved from a middle-of-the-road team to repeat champions and national contenders. Horn’s final season at the helm was the program’s most successful to date, finishing 33-4 and No. 12 in the nation.
Filling her shoes won’t be easy.
Rather than being intimidated by the reputation Horn established for the program, Mock is motivated to continue the tradition and do things right.
“I think it is a good thing to be coming in at this time,” said Mock. “We have national respect and we are itching to continue the success we’ve had up to this point.”
When athletic director Jared Mosley and ACU vice president Dr. Gary McCaleb received the task of replacing seven-year coach Horn, age and experience were the last things on their minds.
According to Mosley, the two most important qualities the department looked for was an understanding of the ACU atmosphere and an openness to commit to ACU’s mission beyond the wins and losses of a season.
Both these qualities cannot be seen on Mock’s resume or coaching history, but rather through the memories and impressions she left behind at ACU as a student and athlete.
“It is different to be here not as a player,” said Mock “But it was easy to make the decision to come back because this place feels like home to me.”
Although Mock has only been at the controls for couple of months, her commitment to God, ACU and the volleyball program can be seen through her service and leadership. These obligations can not only be seen through her actions but even through something as mundane as the office decorations that fill her new office.
Whether it is the miniature volleyball statue on her desk carrying insightful words from the apostle Paul, or the many framed pictures from her days as a player, her commitment is clear.
Mock’s familiarity with the program and existent relationships with players was a contributing factor in the hiring decision.
In fact, some of the girls she now calls players were her teammates in 2004. One such player is co-pre season player of the year Abbie Lowry.
“At first it was a little awkward,” said Lowry. “But it has turned out to be really good because coach Mock knows what we’re going through as players.”
Mock pulled her coaching strategy from her memories on the court and past relationships she has had with coaches at all levels.
“I think the more positive and confident you can be the more the team reacts,” said Mock. “You always feel better as a player when you know the coach believes in you.”
Despite optimism at ACU for coach Mock’s leadership this season, the conference will be a tough obstacle. ACU was picked second in the LSC pre-season poll behind West Texas A&M. The doubts only inspire Mock to prove herself.
“Getting picked second is a positive thing and a motivator,” said Mock. “I think our girls are worthy and will prove they deserve to be picked first.”
If the volleyball team is worthy of a three-peat or if Mock is worthy of replacing Brek Horn is yet to be seen. One thing is certain though, both the new team and coaches have their hearts set on that third LSC championship.
