MWP COACHES
**Coaching assignments are TBD for the 2026-2027 season.
JASON SMITH
DIRECTOR / RECRUITING COORDINATOR
Experience:
Head Volleyball Coach: Alexandria Technical College - Currently
Assistant Volleyball Coach: Alexandria Technical College - 2024
Head Volleyball Coach: NCR All-Stars U17 Red - 2024 - 2025
Why I Coach:
I coach because sport is a beautiful thing. I enjoy trying to get better at something and finally seeing that light bulb go off in my athletes when it clicks. I've had some amazing coaches in my career who have helped me become who I am, and I hope that I can inspire my athletes just as my coaches have done for me.
ERICA SMITH
DIRECTOR OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
Experience:
Erica was once a standout player at Melrose High School. From there, she attended SCSU and was on the spring team. She later transferred to Central Lakes College and became an All-American OH. Erica graduated from MSUM with a Bachelor's in Exercise Science. Erica has coached all positions from 11u - 18u at the club/jo level and is a very sought-after coach for private lessons for the last 15+ years. Erica was previously the Head Volleyball Coach at Ridgewater College, but now assists ATCC while focusing on the MWP club program full time.
Why I Coach:
Simply because this game of volleyball is truly incredible and I just want to help athletes feel the positive influence it can bring to their life as a player, a coach, a spectator, etc. There is nothing like competing and having a healthy outlet to help you through the highs and lows of life.
AMANDA AUSTIN
Experience
I’ve been playing volleyball for as long as I can remember—not just during regular or club seasons, but in every spare minute growing up. My sisters and I spent countless hours peppering in the yard, something I now get to do with my own kids. I played varsity volleyball starting as a freshman in high school and was later recruited to play Division II, beginning my collegiate career at the University of Minnesota Crookston. After two years, I transferred to St. Cloud State and decided not to continue playing—a choice that remains my one “I wish I would have” from my athletic career. I’ve continued to compete through women’s, coed, and fours leagues and still play today. I also began coaching at the youth level over 5 years ago and have spent the last two years working with junior high athletes.
Why I Coach:
I coach because I genuinely love watching athletes improve—week to week, practice to practice, and drill to drill. I focus heavily on attitude, effort, and communication…all things athletes can control. They are the foundations that make both strong players and strong teams. I’m naturally more introverted outside the gym, but once I step into the gym my competitive personality shows up quickly. I have a very sports-focused family, we spend a lot of time in the gym or on a field—whether it’s volleyball, basketball, track, or golf. Coaching allows me to share my passion for the sport, stay connected with my kids, and help young athletes build confidence through hard work and growth.
ALLIE THELEN
BROOKLYN BLANCHARD
Experience:
My introduction to the coaching world started in 2021 as the head coach of a Junior Olympics league based out of Buffalo, Minnesota. I continued my coaching career closer to home with our very own Midwest Power. I spent my first two years here as the 16’s JO head coach, last year as the Head Coach of the 16’s national team, as well as assisting with the 14’s age division. This year will be my 2nd as the Head Coach for the 16’s national team, alongside assisting on the 17’s national team.
Why I Coach:
I coach because to me, volleyball is about so much more than wins and losses. It is a sport that teaches personal accountability and integrity, encourages mental and physical growth, and is a home for passion. I have never been a part of a club that exemplifies these traits more than Midwest Power. The opportunity to learn alongside our staff, share my love and knowledge of this game, and to make a difference to at least one girl drives me to be my very best every time I step foot on the court, not only for me but for my players. Midwest Power is my home away from home, and I am incredibly excited to return this year!
MICHELLE SCHLUENDER
Experience:
Michelle has coached for two years with MWP and is so excited to return this year. She has coached volleyball at various levels, from 4th-6th graders, JV level, and 14s JO. Michelle played volleyball in high school and college and continues to play on a women's league in the winter months.
Why I Coach:
I love coaching the sport of volleyball, and I find great joy in developing fundamental skills in the girls while teaching them to love the game and feel good about their accomplishments.
TOREY BROBACK
Experience:
Torey brings lots of playing as well as coaching experience to MWP. She's previously coached at M1 volleyball club - Head Coach 12u, Assistant Coach 14su, Head Coach 15-2s, Head Coach 18-2, Armstrong High School JV coach - Pequot Lakes JO 14s Head Coach.
In Addition, Torey played at the M1 volleyball club from 12u - 18u. She attended and played at Lakeville North High School, where she played in the state tournament 3 times. Following high school, Torey played collegiately at Providence College, which is D1.
Why I Coach:
Coaching is and always has been a passion of mine. Sharing a passion with younger players is more fun than work.
