Olive-Harvey College’s women’s volleyball team made history this year, and at the center of it all was Coach Rakecia Jenkins, named the NJCAA Region 4 Division I Coach of the Year for 2024. Now in her fourth season as head coach, Jenkins’ passion for the game and dedication to her athletes has propelled the team to new heights, including their first-ever Region 4 Division I Championship.
“It feels surreal to win this award because I still feel like there’s so much more that I have to learn about how to be an effective coach. It’s an honor to see this award in the middle of my development,” Coach Jenkins said.
Coach Jenkins fell in love with volleyball in junior high and went on to play in high school and intramural leagues in college. After the high school where she previously coached closed, she was recommended for the coaching position at Olive-Harvey College—and it turned out to be the perfect fit.
“I am in love with volleyball. It’s my happy place. Coaching these athletes who share the same passion with me is something I love. Watching them grow and develop over two years is amazing. Seeing where they start and how far they go is truly rewarding.”
This year’s volleyball team was the largest Coach Jenkins has ever led, with 14 athletes who were determined to succeed. Though the season began with challenges—just two wins in their first 15 matches—the team turned it around, winning 14 of their next 25 games to finish with a 16-25 record and claim the Region 4 championship.
“Each athlete gave all they could to this team. They were hungry. It proved we were a force to be reckoned with,” she shared.
The team’s success in the region not only earned them the championship title but also led to Coach Jenkins’ well-deserved Coach of the Year recognition.
Despite a loss in the NJCAA District Tournament, Coach Jenkins sees this season as just the beginning. Her goal is clear:
“To win the division next year.”
She credits much of this year’s success to her assistant coach, Mahogany Vinson, a former Division I player from Alabama State, whose insights elevated the team’s competitive edge.
“She gave us a D1 perspective. She’s one of the reasons why we got where we got.”
This season, Coach Jenkins and the Panthers not only made history but also laid the foundation for future success. With her passion, dedication, and a Coach of the Year award to her name, Coach Jenkins is ready to lead Olive-Harvey College’s volleyball program to even greater achievements.
