“Coach Stacie Whetstone brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the court,” said Anthony Turner ‘04, athletic director. “What truly sets her apart is her strong connection to CJ’s mission. She understands that our athletes are students first, called to grow through service, discipline, and teamwork. Her commitment to building confident, accountable young women while honoring our school’s values makes her an outstanding leader for our volleyball program.”
Whetstone is well acquainted with the Eagles volleyball program, having spent the past two seasons as the junior varsity coach and assisting with the varsity team on occasion. Her first two seasons, she served as the junior varsity coach who assisted with the varsity team.
“I am looking forward to serving as the varsity coach for the 2026 season,” said Whetstone. “I want to make an impact in these young women’s lives in the same way my former coaches impacted me. From youth sports to college, I was blessed with coaches who invested in personal connections. I felt valued, respected, and heard.”
Whetstone’s coaching philosophy stresses that discipline, accountability, and academic performance are non-negotiable. She stated that service has always been an integral part of her athletic life.
Whetstone said, “I believe my philosophies align perfectly with the values the school strives to impart on its students. I want our CJ volleyball players to impact their school and community and become strong servant leaders!”
Whetstone brings more than 30 years of coaching experience to CJ, with a background that includes volleyball at multiple levels and track and field. She currently serves as the varsity girls track coach at Butler High School and coaches a 16U club volleyball team with Legacy Volleyball Club.
“Having coached a wide range of ages and sports, I can share my passion, energy, and love for any sport I coach,” Whetstone said. “With regard to volleyball specifically, I want my players to know that I, and the coaches around them, prioritize ‘the person over the performance’.”
According to Whetstone, the girls volleyball program will center on three key components: academics, service, and volleyball. She believes volleyball is a privilege that should not be taken for granted, stressing that school and service will shape their futures and determine lifetime outcomes far more than their time on a court.
She believes that a valued and respected player will always want to perform well. A strong individual work ethic, paired with a team-first mentality, is her approach to each game and practice. She wants her players to come prepared and have a personal investment in practice because this will determine how well the team does. She knows that wins and losses will happen, but there are teaching moments with both.
“Building a strong and successful program will require a commitment from coaches, players, and parents,” said Whetstone. “Our program requires accountability, open communication, respect, and a value for all players, coaches, parents, and members of opposing schools. A player who knows she is valued and respected will want to succeed, and winning will become part of the journey. A strong individual work ethic paired with a ‘team first mentality’ will always be our focus, and we will strive to outwork yesterday.”
As far as Whetstone’s goals for the future of the girls volleyball program, she explains that winning is always a goal, not the mission.
“My vision for the CJ Eagles volleyball program is to set a new standard of excellence in all facets,” said Whetstone. “That starts first and foremost with the coaching staff. It is our responsibility to set the example we expect from our players.”
She expects coaches, including herself, to be service-minded and detail-oriented.
“When we serve others, we all become better,” Whetstone said. “When we take care of the little things, the big things become easier. We will always be prepared, well-disciplined, and handle ourselves in a manner that will make the CJ community proud.”