Kearney High selects former UNK star Brand as new volleyball coach

KEARNEY, Neb. — Kearney High is turning to someone with playing at coaching experience at UNK to lead its volleyball program.

The school announced Monday that it hired Stephanie Brand as head coach. She replaces Theison Anderson, who resigned in January to focus on youth coaching.

Brand served four years as an assistant coach for the Lopers under legendary coach Rick Squiers. Over that time, UNK went 139-10, made four NCAA Tournament appearances and won four MIAA regular season and tournament titles.

"From the first time Coach Brand and I sat down to meet, I was immediately impressed with her knowledge and competitive experience within the sport of volleyball,” Activities Director Ryan Hogue said in a statement. “We are very fortunate to have Stephanie take over the Bearcat volleyball program.”

Brand started her college playing career at Wayne St. before transferring to UNK. She made the NCAA tournament every year as a player, made the conference honor roll three times and was a captain on UNK’s 2014 squad.

“I'm excited to bring my passion for volleyball and coaching to Kearney High School and look forward to getting back into the gym with the Bearcats and getting to work,” Brand said. “It's an honor to contribute to the Bearcats' legacy and work with these talented young athletes. I look forward to working with the rest of the coaches at KPS to build a team that will compete at the highest level on and off the court.”

Brand played high school volleyball at Grand Island Central Catholic. She was a four-year starter, won two state championships and left as the school’s career leader in kills.

The Bearcats finished with an 11-21 record in 2023. They last posted a winning record in 2020.