Coach Morgan Wijay, Leading Harvard Westlake is Girls Volleyball Team to New Heights
Morgan Wijay Embarks on a New Journey
Morgan Wijay has officially taken on the role of head coach for Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball team, marking an extraordinary return after a decade-long tenure with Bishop Alemany. With her passion and extensive experience, Wijay is setting ambitious goals to restore Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball program to its former elite status.
The Significance of the Decision
Wijay’s return to Harvard-Westlake is more than just a career move—it’s a homecoming. She views this as an opportunity to develop and strengthen a volleyball program at the very place where her coaching journey began. “Where better to effect change than where you started, your roots?” Wijay shared. Her words reflect both her deep connection to the school and her profound dedication to the sport of volleyball.
A Decade at Alemany
During her 10 years at Alemany, Wijay made an indelible mark with notable achievements. Under her leadership, Alemany won the CIF Southern Section Championship in both 2021 and 2022. She was honoured as the CIF Coach of the Year in those seasons as well, a historic first for the school as the Warriors secured back-to-back volleyball championships. This accomplishment was a source of pride not just for Wijay but also for the entire team and community.
Vision for Harvard-Westlake
Wijay’s primary goal is to elevate Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball team into a nationally recognized program. She is determined to revive the school’s reputation for producing outstanding players and achieving exceptional results. Her plans include enhancing players’ technical skills, building physical strength, and honing strategic thinking.
Resources and Talent
Wijay firmly believes Harvard-Westlake has the resources and potential to attract top talent. “They have the capacity to truly draw in some incredible talent,” she remarked. “When I was coaching there before, it was a very elite program.” Her confidence is paired with a concrete plan to achieve success. She plans to work closely with leadership and other coaches to create an environment where athletes can excel.
Challenges Ahead
Under previous head coach Mitch Kallick, Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball team faced difficulties. In the 2024 season, the team finished fourth in the Mission League with an overall record of 13-15 and a league record of 2-8. In 2023, they ranked fifth with a 9-18 record. These results signal a pressing need for improvement to remain competitive in a challenging league. Wijay sees this as an opportunity to grow. She plans to focus on individual skill development while fostering a positive playing environment.
Strengthening Community Ties
In addition to enhancing players’ skills, Wijay aims to build strong connections with the community. She hopes to engage alumni and volleyball influencers to create a robust support network for young players. This approach not only motivates current athletes but also fosters a friendly, united atmosphere. Wijay’s daughter, London, a sophomore volleyball player at USC, is expected to collaborate with the Harvard-Westlake team. Wijay anticipates that London and other collegiate players will provide valuable insights and guidance.
Developing Strategic Thinking
One critical focus for Wijay is cultivating players’ tactical awareness. She plans to organize strategy-focused training sessions, enabling athletes to understand opposing teams better and optimize their gameplay. Encouraging players to analyze their own and opponents’ matches will also be integral to this effort.
A New Chapter with Determination
Morgan Wijay returns to Harvard-Westlake with a clear vision and unwavering determination. With her extensive experience and dedication to volleyball, she is laying the foundation for a successful program. Her positive changes are expected to not only elevate the team’s performance but also create a nurturing environment for players’ growth.
A Legacy in the Making
Beyond short-term objectives, Wijay has long-term aspirations for the program. She envisions not only building a competitive team but also establishing a robust foundation for future generations of athletes. Wijay hopes that Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball program will be remembered not only for its achievements but also for the lasting memories and valuable lessons it provides to every player. With her dedication and vision, Morgan Wijay is poised to guide Harvard-Westlake’s girls’ volleyball team to new heights, restoring the prestige of one of the region’s premier volleyball programs.