OTTAWA, Kan. – Ottawa University Director of Athletics has announced the appointment of Lee Ragland as the new head coach of the OU women's beach volleyball program. Ragland succeeds Emily Jackson, who will transition into an assistant coaching role for both the OU women's and men's indoor volleyball teams.
"We're excited to appoint Lee Ragland as our next head beach volleyball coach," said Eaton-Smtih. "Her commitment and dedication to the university has been unwavering. The knowledge and skill set she brings will keep us a step ahead of our competitors. I'm confident her leadership will keep us trending upward as we continue to grow the beach program."
Ragland joined the Ottawa University coaching staff in 2022 as an assistant coach for the women's indoor program and expanded her role in 2023 as an assistant coach for the men's indoor team. She has served as the head coach for both of Ottawa's women's junior varsity volleyball teams. In this role, she developed and implemented practice plans, oversaw the management and development of over 30 student-athletes, and maintained a focus on performance, player well-being, and academic balance across more than 60 matches. Ragland has also worked closely with the varsity program, contributing to its growth and competitive success.
"I'm honored to serve Ottawa University and the proud athletics traditions in this new role," said Ragland. "Ottawa Volleyball has been the gold standard within our conference for many years. As beach volleyball gains in popularity with more opportunities and collegiate programs beginning every year, I am confident our athletes will continue to build on the successes of those players and coaches who have built the foundation and set the standard."
Prior to her time at Ottawa University, Ragland served as the Program Director for MAVS KC (August 2018–2022) and has been the Director of MAVC KC – Selection Club since August 2019. In these leadership roles, she oversaw all aspects of programming, including camps, clinics, and leagues. Ragland was instrumental in coach recruitment and scheduling, marketing strategy, registration and data infrastructure, and overall operational management.
A seasoned coach with experience across multiple levels—including Junior Nationals, high school, and collegiate volleyball—Ragland is also a former student-athlete herself. She was a three-year letterwinner in volleyball and a two-year letterwinner in track and field at Drake University.
