Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy Appoints Heather Collins as Head Volleyball Coach

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy (FSHA) has appointed Heather Collins as its new Head Varsity Volleyball Coach, effective immediately. This announcement, made on February 10, 2026, highlights Collins’ extensive background in volleyball, which encompasses over 30 years of coaching experience and a rich history as a former NCAA Division I player.

Collins, who played at UC Santa Barbara and served as team captain, brings a wealth of experience to the role. After her collegiate career, she transitioned to professional volleyball, competing in both indoor and sand formats. Her coaching journey began shortly after graduation, when she accepted an assistant coaching position that ultimately led to a long and successful career in coaching.

Throughout her nearly three-decade coaching tenure, Collins has held significant positions, including Assistant Coach at Loyola Marymount University from 1997 to 2010 and Head Coach at Occidental College from 2011 to 2024. Additionally, she has contributed to elite club programs and has international coaching experience in countries such as Italy, the Dominican Republic, Australia, and Costa Rica.

Collins is known for her competitive spirit and a player-centered coaching philosophy. She emphasizes the importance of long-term athlete development and accountability. “I’m super competitive and I’d love to win, but the best part about coaching is when you’re working with a player and they’re struggling through a certain skill, but you see the progress that they’re making,” Collins stated. “That light-bulb moment—when they understand why the work matters—is what coaching is really about.”

Her appointment is seen as a crucial advancement for FSHA athletics. The academy is committed to nurturing well-rounded, high-performing young women, both on and off the court. Collins’ expertise and leadership are expected to significantly elevate the volleyball program and inspire student-athletes to reach their fullest potential.

Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy is an all-girls Catholic school located in La Cañada Flintridge, California. It offers a college-preparatory education, focusing on developing students’ faith, integrity, and truth. With Collins at the helm of the volleyball program, FSHA is poised to enhance its athletic offerings and continue its mission of fostering excellence in young women.

For further information, media inquiries can be directed to Sandra Millett, Director of Communications, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 626-685-8392. More details can be found on the academy’s website at fsha.org.