Takoma Park, MD. - Washington Adventist University is proud to announce the official appointment of Anastasia Allen as the Head Coach of the Women's Volleyball program. A familiar face on campus and a true product of Shock Nation, Allen's journey from student-athlete to coach reflects faith, leadership, and a deep passion for both sports and student development.

 

Allen's connection to WAU Athletics began as a student-athlete, where she excelled on the volleyball court, basketball court, and softball field, and embodied the values of discipline and teamwork. A 2022 graduate of Washington Adventist University, she earned her Bachelor's degree in Health Science with a specialization in Sports and Fitness Health, laying the foundation for her career in athletics and wellness.

 

"Transitioning from a player to a coach came naturally to me," Coach Allen said. "As an athlete, I led with hustle, determination, and strong leadership, qualities that now drive my coaching, but on an even greater level. My commitment is to continuously grow as a coach while dedicating myself fully to this program. "

 

Her leadership qualities quickly rose above the rest, and following her playing days, Allen transitioned into coaching. She first served as Interim Head Coach of the women's volleyball program, a role in which she demonstrated not only her technical knowledge of the game but also her ability to mentor and inspire student-athletes. Her efforts and dedication led to her appointment as Head Coach for the 2024 season.

 

"It's been awesome to see the growth of our Volleyball program under the leadership of Ana, said Athletics Director Jered Lyons. "She has put together a stellar staff that will support our student-athletes. She is a rising star, and we know she will make an impact within the conference & NAIA."

 

Allen's academic journey did not stop with her undergraduate degree. She pursued and completed her Master of Business Administration, equipping her with the strategic and organizational skills needed to manage a competitive collegiate program. This blend of sports knowledge and business acumen allows her to approach coaching with a unique perspective, balancing player development, program visibility, and recruiting.

 

In addition to her coaching role, Allen serves as the Graduate Assistant Dean of Women at Halcyon Hall, where she mentors and supports young women in their academic and personal growth. Known affectionately by her students as "Dean Ana," she is committed to creating an environment where student-athletes thrive not only in competition but also in life.

 

Her professional versatility extends further. Allen is also an experienced property manager, overseeing operations and delivering excellence in the real estate industry. This diverse background underscores her adaptability, leadership, and commitment to excellence in every space she occupies.

 

As Head Coach, Allen is determined to elevate the women's volleyball program, building on its strengths while cultivating a winning culture rooted in faith, discipline, and hard work. She sees her role not just as a coach, but as a mentor guiding student-athletes toward excellence both on and off the court.

 

"My vision is to elevate our volleyball culture, create excitement in the pit," Allen shared. "I want to build a program that develops true volleyball athletes who will be driven, disciplined, and passionate about the game."

 

The Washington Adventist University community celebrates Allen's appointment as a full-circle success story, an alumna who has returned to give back and lead the next generation of student-athletes. With her at the helm, the future of WAU Women's Volleyball looks brighter than ever.