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Johnny Lai

Johnny Lai    A s s t  C o a c h        T e a m        email: johnny@wvba.org

I have been involved with the game of volleyball since I was first introduced to the sport in 1982 while growing up in the California central valley city of Visalia. As there was no organized boy's volleyball in Visalia, I played anytime I had the chance from indoor sixes to outdoors doubles learning the game whenever I could.

After high school I attended UC Davis where I honed my playing skills with the men's club team. While attending graduate school at the University of Washington, I played a season with the men's club team and then for my own USAV Men's Open/AA indoor teams for 10 years. I continue to play outdoor sand and grass doubles volleyball to this day.

I have coached at the junior high, high school, juniors club, collegiate club, junior college, and now at the NCAA level where I am currently an assistant coach at Seattle Pacific University (Go Falcons!) for the past 4 seasons. After a two-year sabbatical from club volleyball, I am excited to return to coaching juniors. I love working with athletes and teaching them the game which has provided me with so much enjoyment through these years.

Professional
I am a research scientist involved in pharmaceutical research and development.

Personal
When I am not coaching or working, I spend time playing volleyball as well as other sports, in the gym trying to prevent old age from overtaking me, constantly working around my house, and socializing with my family and friends.

 		 
    Coaching Philosophy
    I'm a follower of the John Wooden model of coaching where one is not only a teacher but a role model. My goal is to ensure that the athletes have every opportunity and the tools to achieve their goals whether in volleyball or in life. I believe in providing a positive learning environment where the highest standards are expected from the athletes, parents, and coaches, and that dedication, teamwork, leadership and accountability are more than just words but a way of life. I focus on not only improving an athlete's physical game but also their intellectual and emotional skills. Only when all three of these attributes are connected and synergic can excellence be achieved.

    Education
    Bachelor of Science, University of California, Davis
    Master of Science, University of Washington, Seattle
    Certificate in Management, University of Washington, Seattle

    Coaching Certifications
    Impact Certified
    CAP Level I Certified
    Gold Medal Squared Coaching Clinic

    Playing Experience
    University of CA, Davis Men's Club Team
    University of WA Men's Club Team
    USAV Men's Open/AA Indoor Sixes
    NCVA, AVA, Seaside and AVPNext Outdoor Doubles

    Coaching Experience
    Asst. Coach - SPU (2006-present)
    Club Wahine - 16s (2001), 15s (2002), 18s (2003), 15s (2004), and 18s (2005)
    WVBA - 17s (2006) and 18s (2007)
    Oliver Wendell Holmes JHS, Davis, CA (1991)
    University of WA Women's Volleyball Club Team (1993-1995)
    Roosevelt HS, Seattle (1997-2001)
    Bellevue CC (2003-2005)
    Roosevelt HS Camps
    Seattle Pacific U. Camps

    Coaching Highlights
    Club Wahine 15 (2004)
      American USAV JOs
    WVBA 17 (2006)
      National USAV JOs WVBA 18 (2007)
      1st Place PSR U18 Power League and 7th Place Volleyball Festival
    Bellevue Community College
      2003 and 2005 North Division Champions
    Seattle Pacific University
       2006 GNAC Champion (16-0), NCAA Division II Tournament, and Final 18, National Ranking, 2009 NCAA Division II Tournament