After 11 years coaching, Coach Shawn McDonald stepped down from her position as head volleyball coach for the Pascack Hills volleyball program this past week. Due to her husband’s recent job promotion, Coach McDonald made the decision to resign from her spot as head coach in order to take care of her two kids Gavin (3) and Sinclair (15 months). Her husband’s new job will require him to work longer hours, therefore demanding Coach McDonald to pick up her kids from daycare and take care of them.
The former Seton Hall standout setter held a meeting Thursday, May 12 to announce her resignation to her players, their families, and other alumni. Coach McDonald still plans to teach at Pascack Hills, despite stepping down as the volleyball coach.
Coach McDonald captured three league titles in her reign as head coach. She also had three first-team all county players and made it to the county semifinals in 2009. She won the state title in 2009 as a head coach and calls it her “best season.” While her achievements are phenomenal, her legacy is even greater.
“Her words will echo in that gym forever—and not just because of her voice,” said senior Jamie Spelling. “McDonald wasn’t just a coach; she had a certain presence that will remain legendary throughout the Pascack Hills volleyball program.”
Senior Rachel Morgan talked about Coach McDonald’s passion for the game. “I’ll never forget how passionate she was about volleyball. She put in a lot of time and effort during the volleyball season and I just want her to know that we, her players, are all thankful for what she did for each and everyone of us.” She later said, “I hope one day I have as much passion for my job as McDonald had for coaching.”
This past year’s group of seniors was Coach McDonald’s closest class relationship-wise. She felt like she was one with the team, which helped them connect with their coach and succeed this year with an 18-5 record.
Sophomore Erin Darley said, “I’ll remember how much her words pushed me to want to be a better player. Everything she said motivated me to work harder and make the best out of every play. I’ll truly miss her as a coach.”
The legacy of Coach McDonald will never be forgotten. Her love and enthusiasm for the game of volleyball was contagious from start to finish. Whether it be the players, the student body, the families or the administration, Coach McDonald will be sorely missed as head volleyball coach.
