Sara Reilly was hired to her current position in February 2009. She spent one season as coach for the Spokane Splash after playing as a libero at Eastern Washington University. She recently played professionally for Club Volibol Laredo in Cantabria, Spain.
"Sara is such a perfect fit for our program," said coach Houck. "Her experience as a former player for Mike King in junior club growing up in Portland, and then with me at Eastern Washington University will help her hit the court running with our training style. At EWU Sara was an integral part of our nationally ranked teams, and she understands the approach to bringing that level of performance to the UP program."
Reilly helped EWU to four straight 20-win seasons and three consecutive regular season Big Sky Conference championships. She was named Big Sky Conference All-Academic in 2002, 2003 and 2005. As a junior, Reilly earned the Eagle Award, a team award given to the player who most exemplifies leadership, commitment and work ethic.
After graduating from EWU with a degree in communication studies, Reilly spent a season playing for the Spanish club Volibol Laredo where she earned the co-captaincy. She then returned to Washington where she transitioned from player to coach with the Spokane Splash volleyball team.
"I am very excited to become a member of the UP volleyball program," said Reilly, who hails from Beaver Creek, Ore. "I feel privileged to work alongside coaches Joe and Mike, who I know are dedicated to their work and passionate about coaching. I look forward to this season and helping with ‘MOVIN UP!’."