Jones enters into her first season (2016-17) as an Assistant Head Coach in the Bryan Lions Volleyball program.
Jones was a three-year stand out for the University of Montana Grizzlies. During her time with the “Griz” (2011-2013), Jones was named to the Academic All-Big Sky Conference twice, while double majoring in psychology and communications.
Prior to her time at the University of Montana, Jones was a graduate of the Western Montana Home School Association where she began her competitive club volleyball career at age seven. Her mother, Marilou Jones, was the owner and club director of Montana Volleyball Academy (MVA), which is a highly respected USA Volleyball club program in Missoula, Montana.
Following her graduation from the University of Montana in 2014, Jones took her talent overseas to Thailand where she played for Athletes in Action, which is a Christian organization that works to spread the gospel through athletics. During her time in Thailand, Jones had the opportunity to play against several professional teams, coach numerous volleyball camps, and share the love of Jesus with others.
Jones began her coaching career at the age of 16, where she coached Junior Olympic Volleyball for Montana Volleyball Academy. Since her coaching start, Jones has had the privilege to work with volleyball players of all ages. Most recently, Jones was the Head Volleyball Coach at Loyola Sacred Heart High School (Mont.) where she led her varsity team to finish 5th in the State Tournament.
Coach Jones’ primary on-court responsibilities will include overseeing the team's offense. As the team's top assistant, she will also function as the Head JV Volleyball Coach. “I am very pleased to have Natalie join our coaching staff,” commented Coach Day. “She has a deep passion, not only for the game of volleyball, but for the Lord. I am excited to see how she will incorporate both passions to help our team get to the next level.
Natalie will be making the move from Missoula, Montana to Dayton, Tenn. in August.
