Danielle Jensen, head coach of the Southern Utah University women’s volleyball team, took on the role eight months ago and is already making her mark on the team.
Jensen has coached volleyball for 22 years, joining the Thunderbirds in August 2025. Her approach to coaching consists of team-building, skill enhancement and fostering a culture of friendship and dedication.
“My goals for the 2026 season would be number one, to see, and have others see and feel, the culture shift,” Jensen said. “This includes the way we approach the game and the way we interact with the community and recruits to start getting our name on the map.”
Jensen also emphasized the value of interacting with the Cedar City community to demonstrate her team’s commitment to service. The team frequently hosts recreational youth games, volunteers for care facilities and assists with local events.
While her effort speaks for itself, she expressed feeling uncertain during her first season as a coach with establishing herself as a leader for a team that she did not recruit.
Despite initial setbacks, with the team going 3-21 in her first year, she aims to guide each athlete to fulfill their potential and create a reputation within the Big Sky conference this upcoming fall.
“I am here to build a legacy, not just get through each season,” said Jensen. “This next season we will need to win some big games to give us momentum going forward.”
Author: Melodi Brooke
Photographer: SUU Athletics
Editor: Payson Davis
