Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, most college students wait until after graduation to start their careers, but Haleigh Molock is ahead of the game. The Jacksonville State University (Jax State) senior, majoring in social studies and secondary education, has already made her mark as head volleyball coach at Faith Christian School in Anniston.
Molock’s coaching journey began unexpectedly last summer when she received an email from her former volleyball coach at Snead State Community College, Cristie Brothers, about a junior high coaching position at Faith Christian. After applying, Molock was hired, but her role quickly expanded when the varsity coach left. “They just bumped me in,” she said.
Balancing her coaching responsibilities with full-time college studies and a senior practicum presented challenges. Molock credited her professors for their support, particularly Dr. Russell Hammack, who adjusted her independent study schedule to accommodate volleyball games and practices. “It was definitely a lot,” she said. “It was stressful, but I got through it.”
Molock’s path to leadership was paved with hard work and resilience. A native of Spring Garden, she began playing volleyball in 7th grade and quickly excelled. At Spring Garden High School, she was named Player of the Year and Cherokee County MVP in 2020. After graduating as valedictorian, she continued her volleyball career at Snead State Community College, where she overcame significant injuries during her sophomore year.
Transitioning from player to coach wasn’t without its challenges. “It’s weird when you want your kids to try as hard as you did, and when they don’t, it can be frustrating,” she admitted. However, Molock embraced the opportunity to inspire her players. The Faith Christian community welcomed her enthusiastically. A post on the school’s Facebook page described her as bringing “a wealth of experience and enthusiasm” to the program.
In her first year as head coach, Molock led the Lions to the Class 1A state quarterfinals. Despite falling to eventual state runner-up University Charter, the team’s Cinderella story left a lasting impression. “They worked their butts off. That’s all I can ask of them – to work hard and have a good attitude,” Molock said.
Reflecting on the season, Molock expressed pride in her players and gratitude for the experience. “I have a newfound respect for all the coaches I’ve had. It is so much more time and effort than I ever would’ve thought. But it’s all been worth it because I felt like I really impacted these kids’ lives.”
Looking ahead, Molock is keeping her options open but remains grounded in her faith and the support system that helped her succeed. “You never know where the next door will lead. But whatever happens, I couldn’t have done this without God helping me get this opportunity,” she said.
