Why the name Podio and why both sports?

“Podio” means podium in Spanish. I want our athletes to experience the thrill of reaching the volleyball podium, something I’ve had the privilege of doing as both a volleyball coach and a basketball player. Or at the very least, I want them to enjoy the journey of striving to get there.

What’s always stood out to me are the coaches who really see their athletes, not just as players, but as people. I try to emulate that. The mindset, strategy, and motivation we teach on the court should carry over into life. That’s the kind of impact I hope we can make.

Why include “Sports” in the club name?

I’ve found a unique coaching crossover between basketball and volleyball that enhances how I teach and how athletes learn. In the future, if someone shares our coaching philosophy and wants to bring another sport under the Podio umbrella, I’d be open to that.

Will you ever add boys teams?

Yes, that is definitely part of the plan. We wanted to start strong by focusing on one group first. Through conversations with friends and mentors, I’ve been inspired by the need to uplift and empower young women in sports, helping them grow in confidence, leadership, and community. This felt like the right place to start. But we’re building this for everyone, and boys teams will come.

How will your club be different?

I’m not setting out to be better than other clubs. I truly admire many of them. Instead, I’m bringing my own experience to the table to create something valuable and meaningful for athletes who align with our vision.

What makes Podio Sports unique:

• We train 3 to 4 times per week

• Strength and Conditioning is built into our program with our own coach

• We help athletes enjoy the game today while preparing for college-level opportunities tomorrow

• We leverage existing college coach relationships to support our athletes’ goals

• We’re fortunate to be based at The Overlake School, where leadership shares our vision and provides an incredible facility to grow

We also have exciting development plans ahead, but we’re starting simple and strong. Stay tuned.

How many players will be on each team?

We’re aiming for 10 to 12 players per team, enough for healthy competition and a strong team dynamic. Our goal at tryouts is to build the most cohesive, competitive team possible in year one.

In addition to offers for each team, we’ll also identify 8 to 10 players for a waitlist and have conversations with those families about future opportunities.

Are you worried about gym space at the school?

Not at all. I actually work at the same school where we’ll be practicing, and I’ve built strong relationships there. I trust that if we take care of the school, they’ll support our Podio Sports journey in return. All our practice times will be scheduled after Overlake's school sports, and while the school will always have priority, it's part of our responsibility to stay flexible and adapt when needed. It’s also my job to communicate any changes clearly and in a timely manner, so families have what they need to get their athletes to practice smoothly.

Isn’t it a little crazy to launch a club in three weeks?

YES!!! 😄 Thankfully, I’m surrounded by some incredibly talented and motivated people who make it all possible.