Cheri Lindsay Appointed as Head Coach of Memphis Volleyball Program

A Promising Appointment

Cheri Lindsay has officially been named the head coach of the volleyball program at the University of Memphis. The announcement was made on Tuesday by Senior Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ed Scott. With her extensive experience and success across various levels, Lindsay is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Memphis volleyball team.

Lindsay’s Diverse Experience

Ed Scott emphasized that Lindsay is not only a seasoned coach but also hails from a family with a rich athletic tradition. “Coach Lindsay possesses a wealth of experience, having been a successful head coach at various levels. Last season, she implemented a strategic plan that allowed her to defeat Memphis while at Prairie View,” he noted. This highlights Lindsay’s ability to develop strategies and nurture talent effectively.

Lindsay’s Coaching Background

Lindsay joins Memphis following two successful seasons at Prairie View A&M, where she guided the Lady Panthers to an impressive record of 36-29, including 26-6 in conference play. This achievement underscores her leadership and team management abilities.

Excitement to Join Memphis

Expressing her enthusiasm, Lindsay stated, “This opportunity is not only a new chapter in my career but also a chance to build a program focused on excellence, teamwork, and a commitment to success.” Her passion and determination to elevate the team to new heights are evident.

Notable Success at Prairie View A&M

In the 2024 season, under Lindsay’s guidance, the Lady Panthers achieved a 13-3 record in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and reached the tournament quarterfinals. Key players Kylee Owens, Janyah Henderson, and Leah Lawson earned postseason honors, with Owens named SWAC Player of the Year.

Early Achievements at East Central University

Before returning to Prairie View A&M, Lindsay served as head coach for the East Central University Lady Tigers. She transformed a struggling program, turning a 2-29 team into a competitive one that reached postseason play for the first time since 2013. During her tenure, the team set several new records, including the longest winning streak of nine games.

Strategic Vision at East Central

In her debut season at East Central, Lindsay led the Lady Tigers to a historic 15-win season and sustained the success in 2022 with another 15-win record, further establishing her as an exceptional leader. Beyond her roles at Prairie View A&M and East Central, Lindsay has coached at Seattle University, Bethany College, and Tiffin University. At Bethany, she also served as Associate Athletic Director and an adjunct instructor in Business and Sports Management.

Lindsay’s Playing Career

As a player, Lindsay had a standout volleyball career with the Prairie View A&M Lady Panthers from 2008-2011. She was a three-time All-SWAC First Team honoree, recording over 1,300 kills and 1,000 digs. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Prairie View A&M in 2011, followed by an MBA from Tiffin University in 2013. Currently pursuing a doctorate in sports psychology at Prairie View A&M, Lindsay continues to exemplify her commitment to self-improvement and excellence.

Reactions from Athletic Leaders

Anton Goff, Athletic Director at Prairie View A&M, expressed excitement about Lindsay’s appointment: “They’ve got an extraordinary coach, but an even better person.” He highlighted her potential to achieve continued success at Memphis. Alicia Pete, Prairie View A&M’s Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator, added: “Lindsay is a remarkable individual both on and off the court,” reflecting the deep respect and admiration Lindsay has garnered from her colleagues.

A Bright Future for Memphis Volleyball

With Cheri Lindsay’s appointment, the Memphis volleyball program is embarking on a promising new chapter. Her leadership aims to build a strong, competitive team focused on excellence and camaraderie. This significant milestone in Lindsay’s career is seen as a crucial step forward. With her experience and passion, fans can look forward to a successful season ahead. Stay tuned for exciting developments in Lindsay’s journey with Memphis and the achievements she will bring to the program!