Our dedicated coaching staff are here to help each athlete achieve their goals! Each coach is trained to teach each position and our diverse staff all bring their own specialties and experience to provide each athlete with unique training.
The Edge Volleyball Club Coaching Staff
Lisa Froelich has been a driving force behind The Edge Volleyball Club since joining the coaching staff in 2010. After spending nine seasons developing athletes and helping shape the club's culture, she became Owner and Club Director, where she continues to lead the program with a commitment to excellence, athlete development, and creating a positive, competitive environment. Before joining The Edge, Coach Lisa spent four seasons coaching with the Winona Area Volleyball Club and worked summer camps at nationally recognized Sports Performance Volleyball Club, helping athletes of all ages develop their skills and love for the game. As a player, Coach Lisa enjoyed an outstanding career at Wheaton St. Francis High School, where she helped lead the Spartans to two IHSA State Championships. She continued her playing career at Winona State University, where she was a four-year starting setter and one of the most accomplished players in program history. She earned First Team All-NSIC honors, was a four-time Winona State Offensive Player of the Year, graduated as the Warriors' all-time assists leader with 5,031 career assists, ranks third in program history with 145 career service aces, is among the program's all-time leaders with 1,409 career digs, and was inducted into the Winona State Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. Following her collegiate career, Coach Lisa spent two seasons as an assistant coach at Dominican University, helping guide the Stars to two NCAA Tournament appearances. She also served as the setters coach during a spring season with DePaul University's volleyball program, working with Division I athletes. In 2021, Coach Lisa joined the coaching staff at Willowbrook High School as the JV Head Coach and Varsity Assistant. During her first season, the varsity team finished an impressive 37-2 and advanced to the IHSA 4A Supersectional before falling to eventual state runner-up Mother McAuley. Over the course of her coaching career, Coach Lisa has worked with well over 2,000 athletes, from beginners taking their very first volleyball touches to collegiate athletes competing at the NCAA level. She has helped mentor athletes who have gone on to play at the NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, and junior college levels, while also guiding countless others toward successful high school careers and a lifelong love for the sport. Today, Coach Lisa oversees all aspects of The Edge Volleyball Club while also leading the club's youngest developmental programs, VolleyPops and VolleyBees, introducing children as young as three years old to the game and building the technical foundation, confidence, and love for volleyball that will carry them through their athletic journey. Coach Lisa believes great volleyball players are developed through outstanding fundamentals, versatility, confidence, leadership, and a genuine passion for the game. Whether she's teaching technical skills, developing volleyball IQ, mentoring future leaders, or jumping into drills alongside her players, she is dedicated to helping every athlete become the best version of themselves—both on and off the court. For Coach Lisa, success is measured by far more than wins and championships. Her goal is for every athlete who walks through The Edge doors to leave more confident, more versatile, and better prepared to lead—on the volleyball court, in the classroom, and throughout life. That commitment to developing exceptional people, not just exceptional players, is the foundation of The Edge Volleyball Club.
Caitlin O'Hara Reader is the Assistant Club Director and High School Director at The Edge Volleyball Club, where she has played a pivotal role in the club's growth, athlete development, and competitive success since joining the organization in 2013. She oversees the club's high school and short season programming, coach development, and college recruiting initiatives while fostering a culture centered on developing great people and leaders—not just athletes. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes accountability, character, and long-term growth both on and off the court. In addition to her leadership at The Edge, Caitlin has been a leader in junior volleyball event management for more than 20 years. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the ASICS National Volleyball Championships, helping oversee one of the nation's premier junior volleyball events held annually at Chicago's iconic Navy Pier. Her extensive experience in tournament operations, event management, and organizational leadership has made her a respected figure within the volleyball community. Throughout her coaching career, Caitlin has successfully led teams across every age division, coaching athletes from 12U through 18U. Her teams have ranged from developmental groups built from the ground up to nationally competitive squads, consistently earning top finishes at premier tournaments while developing athletes who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level. In addition to her club coaching experience, she has worked alongside collegiate coaching staffs, assisting local college volleyball programs with athlete development, training, and program support, further expanding her perspective on the pathway from junior volleyball to the collegiate game. As Director of College Recruiting for The Edge, Caitlin has guided athletes and families through the recruiting process, helping players identify collegiate opportunities that align with their athletic, academic, and personal goals. She is passionate about educating families, empowering athletes, and preparing them for success beyond club volleyball. A former collegiate middle blocker, Caitlin began her playing career at Northern Michigan University before transferring to Elmhurst University, where she earned All-American honors. She also holds an ACE Personal Trainer Certification with a specialization in sports performance and agility and co-leads The Edge's strength and conditioning program alongside Lisa Froelich, bringing a comprehensive approach to athlete development. Before transitioning into club leadership, Caitlin served as Head Varsity Coach at Willows Academy, where she led the program to its first regional volleyball championship in school history. Caitlin is passionate about creating environments where athletes, coaches, and families can thrive. She believes the strongest programs are built through meaningful relationships, high standards, and an unwavering commitment to developing confident leaders both on and off the court.
Coach Dani started her coaching career in 2014. Growing up she loved watching the “older” kids play volleyball. She started playing volleyball in 5th grade and that’s where she fell in love with the sport. Throughout middle school & high school she played as a libero and unfortunately due to an injury she did not continue play in college. After her injury her coaching career started. She went back to her alma mater and started coaching. She coached the JV team and assisted varsity. During her time there they won a few regional, sectional and super sectional titles. Coach Dani joined The Edge Family in 2017 where she took her first 15U club team. The next year she moved to the middle school program and fell in love with being able inspire the younger generations. She loves fostering the passion of younger athletes and watching them fall in love with the sport just as she did. She pours her time, sweat and energy into the next generation of volleyball players. She brings a new light to every season and faces new challenges head on as she works to coach each athlete individually in the manner to encourage the most growth. In 2023 Coach Dani took over the role of Middle School Club Director and continues to use her passion to inspire the next generation of strong, young, athletes.
Coach Sean could be found court side since he was two weeks old with his love for volleyball coming from his parents who both played. He has been coaching since 2017 and started coaching as an Offensive Assistant at Schaumburg Christian School before joining The Edge Volleyball family later that year. In his first year with The Edge he started as a High School and Middle School Assistant before taking on the Head Coach role in 2018. He has been playing volleyball in 2004 and has played every position for a team during that time. He can still be found playing in leagues and tournaments when he is not coaching. Since 2020 he has also taken on the role as Technology Director and is responsible for all the software and hardware we use to help support our coaches. Coach Sean is a big advocate of hard work leading to success and pushes his athletes to always outwork their competition.
This is Liz’s third year with the Edge family, she joined us in fall of 2020 as Admin and operations coordinator for the club. She has been the go-to person for online orders, administrative inquiries, and more. She can often be found stationed at the front check-in desk. With nearly a decade of experience working in office management, Liz brings a wealth of organizational skills to the table. She attended Trinity High school in River Forest and went on to graduate from Bradley University in 2014.
Coach Josh joined the Edge Volleyball Club Family in 2013. He has been officially coaching since 2009, as a high school JV coach in Boston, MA and then at a local club, Chicago Bounce. He attended Newbury College in Brooklyn, MA. He played for 3 years, 2 years as a starter, at all hitting positions. After college, he started traveling and playing competitively on hard court and the beach. He has been the head coach for teams from middle school to seniors in high school, boys and girls and is well versed in the most aspects of the game. He brings high energy and passion when coaching, pacing and cheering during tournaments, as well as constantly drilling fundamentals and mechanics during practices.
Coach Nick has been coaching since 2011. He started coaching as an Assistant Coach at his alma mater Marist High School before joining The Edge family in 2013. He was a Libero at St Ambrose University for four years and can still be found playing around the area in adult leagues, beach, and indoor tournaments. Coach Nick coaches for our High School program and specializes in training our defense players. Coach Nick emphasizes hustle and giving every ounce of effort an athlete has into every play on the court.
Coach George is new to The Edge Volleyball Club as of 2021. He played for Elk Grove High School and has played every position on the court. With a career in radio Coach George had the opportunity to cover Nebraska and Creighton Volleyball for two and a half years. After which he moved back to the Chicagoland area and found himself with an opportunity to coach with The Edge family. Coach George is driven by the want to coach the next generation of passionate and dedicated young athletes.
Coach Jon started coaching with The Edge Volleyball Club in 2016 as a driving force in our boy’s program. Since then he has switched to coaching for our girl’s program as well as being a huge part of our Beach and Short Season Programs. Coach Jon has been playing competitively since 2009 as a setter and played at SIUE as a setter and right side hitter. Coach Jon preaches bringing the fun, excitement, and passion into the game as that passion can help athletes overcome all obstacles.
Coach Bryan is new to The Edge Volleyball family as a head coach as of 2022 and is a former Edge athlete. Coach Bryan started playing competitively in middle school and has continued to play at various levels since. During his time playing he has played every front row hitting position, gaining knowledge for each position. Bryan greatly believes in making effective use of the ball and controlling where an athlete places the ball when hitting.
Coach Meghan has been a coach at The Edge Volleyball Club since 2023 and has played for The Edge for four years. In high school Meghan played for Saint Viator as a defensive specialist/libero. She attended Southern Illinois University for 2 years where she played libero for the SIU Club Volleyball team. Outside of coaching Meghan has had a love for the sky ever since she was young. She has been flying planes alone since she was 18 and hopes to be a flight instructor soon. Meghan has a drive to help young girls love the sport while becoming the best version of themselves.
Although Coach Alaina is new as a Coach at Edge as of 2023, she started her volleyball career with The Edge Volleyball Club back in 2010 as a player. Through her volleyball career she played Outside, Rightside, and Setter. Alaina played volleyball through college and continues to play after. She has coached for a handful of teams throughout the Chicago area and hopes to continue her coaching journey with the Edge Family.
Coach Katie has been involved in volleyball from a young age, starting club at the age of 12 and playing for The Edge for four years. This marks Katie’s second year as a head coach. During high school, Katie played for Hersey as a defensive specialist/libero. She attended Illinois State University, where she studied Interpersonal Communication and continued playing volleyball for enjoyment, whether it was on the sand or indoors. Outside of coaching, Katie enjoys attending concerts, painting, and appreciating nature. Katie has always harbored a passion for helping athletes become better versions of themselves, both on and off the court.
Sarah Carlson has been a head middle school coach at Edge since the spring 2024 season, where she also previously assisted with the weightlifting program and short season. Her volleyball journey began in 8th grade, continuing through high school, where she joined Edge as a sophomore and played as a middle blocker throughout her time on the court. Now a sophomore at Northwestern University, studying Economics and Political Science, Sarah continues to play volleyball for fun while passionately pursuing her love for coaching. She is deeply committed to helping young athletes grow and overcome challenges, both on and off the court. Sarah believes that with dedication, hard work, and a supportive team, athletes can achieve their full potential and become confident, resilient individuals, and she is driven to inspire and empower her players every step of the way.
Coach Sydney joined the Edge family in 2024 and is so excited to coach this season, bringing a passion for the sport and a deep commitment to developing well-rounded athletes. With years of playing experience as the starting setter in high school and club volleyball, Coach Sydney understands the technical side of the game, but also believes in the importance of personal growth and confidence that volleyball can provide. Outside of coaching, Coach Sydney graduated from the University of Iowa with a B.A. in Journalism and a Certificate in Event Management. She can’t wait to share her love for volleyball and help players become not just skilled athletes, but also confident, resilient individuals.
The 2025 season will be Emma’s first season as a coach with The Edge Volleyball Club, but she is no stranger to the program. Emma originally joined The Edge in 2016 and continued playing until she graduated from Glenbrook South High School in 2020. Throughout her high school career, she started out as a middle and transitioned into a six-rotation outside hitter and captain of her varsity team. Emma recently graduated from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities with a degree in interior design and is excited to get back into the gym from a different perspective as a coach rather than a player. She is committed to helping grow athletes into strong and confident individuals as well as creating fun memories for the season to come!
Coach Asia began playing volleyball in 8th grade and played throughout high school. She began her college career at Harper College and jumped around from serving specialist, defensive specialist, and right side. After 2 seasons at Harper she transferred to Concordia University Wisconsin as a Defensive Specialist for one season. Currently she is an assistant coach at Harper College! She expresses that volleyball was her first love and she is more than elated to continue her coaching career at The Edge Volleyball Club.
Coach Emily joined The Edge Volleyball in 2025 as an assistant coach for the middle school program. She is originally from Bloomington where she was raised playing volleyball as a libero/DS, along with basketball and track & field. After graduating from high school, she moved to the Des Plaines area where she attends Oakton College majoring in sports management and minoring in exercise science. She is on the volleyball, basketball, and softball teams for her college. She is now a head coach for the Spring Season and hopes to share her love of volleyball with young aspiring athletes. She is determined to help her athletes grow not only as amazing players but also as standout teammates and individuals.
Coach Julia joined The Edge Volleyball Club in the 2025-2026 season as a coach. She previously played for Edge three years as a DS/Libero. During her time as a player, she developed strong defensive skills, communication, and court awareness, which she now brings into her coaching. She is passionate about helping athletes grow both on and off the court and focuses on creating a positive, supportive, and energetic environment where players can build confidence, improve their skills, and enjoy the game.
Coach Cassie joined Edge in 2025 as an assistant coach for the Middle School Program. She is originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she played volleyball, basketball, and softball throughout all 4 years. In volleyball she was a Setter/Rightside. After graduating from high school she moved down to Des Plaines to attend Oakton College, and play basketball and softball. She is now a head coach for the spring season, and hopes to share her love of volleyball with younger athletes. She aspires to help her athletes blossom not only on the court but also as teammates and individuals outside of volleyball.
Coach Danny is new to the program as of 2024. Coach Danny started playing volleyball in 2006 during his freshman year of high school. He started his volleyball career as a setter but has since played every position on the court except for middle blocker. After High School Coach Danny had the opportunity to play on Northern Illinois University Men's Club Team where he was a Libero/DS for 4 years. His team was ranked in the top 25 in the nation every year and their best finish at Nationals was T-8 his Junior year. On top of playing for the Men's Club team Coach Danny also was a practice player for the Women's team at NIU. Coach Danny promotes a fun and energetic team environment and takes pride in making his athletes better people on and off the court.
Coach Vicki has been with Edge from 2019 to 2023 as a player and has been a coach since 2023 for the short season program. She plays for Saint Viator's Varsity volleyball team. Vicki started off as a middle but now plays as an outside or rightside. Vicki has always loved volleyball since she first started in 4th grade and since her first season in 5th grade at Our Lady of the Wayside. She continues her passion for volleyball through coaching and helping young athletes develop a strong connection with the game.
My name is Grace and this is my first year coaching at The Edge Volleyball Club! I currently play collegiate volleyball at North Park University in Chicago and I'm a middle blocker. I'm originally from Joliet, IL, where I went to highschool at Joliet West. I was a varsity athlete for 3 years, and during my senior year we brought home the first Sectional title in Joliet West Girls Volleyball history. I also received IVCA Academic All-State honors during that time. As for club, I started club volleyball my freshman year of high school at Uno Volleyball Club, until my senior year where I played at Belusa United Volleyball Club. Being a middle blocker did not limit me, as I played all the way around during my club years and was selected as a top performer by Prep Dig a few times. At North Park, we've won our conference back-to-back and made an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Mental toughness is an important aspect of the game, which I intend to teach. That competitive edge is so crucial in high pressure situations. I'm excited to help younger athletes really perform at their best, and also teach them that it doesn't always matter how hard you can hit a ball, but how well you can hit those open spots on the court. I want my athletes to succeed, and not just in volleyball.
Coach Cassidy joined the Edge Volleyball Club family in 2024 and is excited for the upcoming season. She played all four years at Fullerton High School in California as a setter and is currently in her second year playing collegiate volleyball as a setter at North Park University. In the 2023 season, her team won the CCIW conference and finished 13th in the AVCA Division III national polls. Coach Cassidy is eager to bring her passion for the game to the Edge Volleyball Club and help develop the next generation of athletes, fostering their growth and potential in a positive and encouraging environment.
Coach Morgan has been a coach at The Edge Volleyball Club since 2023 and has played there since 2018. During high school, she also played as a middle hitter for John Hersey High School. There, she also coached at camp throughout the summer to help prepare the upcoming players for tryouts. Morgan attends Harper College but is planning to transfer to University of Iowa and continue to keep herself involved in volleyball. Morgan has always been passionate about helping athletes be the strongest players they can be, while also being there for them on and off the court.
Coach Abby first joined the staff in 2024 for the short season program. Her volleyball journey began when she was 7 years old playing in the park district. She went on to join Edge in 2022, competing for three years as a libero/DS. She also played two years at Maine West High School. She is so excited to give back to the program! She can’t wait to help athletes grow their skills, build meaningful connections with their teammates, and become better people both on and off the court!
Coach Jenna joined The Edge Volleyball Club as a coach in 2025 and was a player for The Edge from 2016-2020. Her love for volleyball started in 4th grade, and she continued to play throughout high school. Jenna played as a middle blocker for the entirety of her volleyball career. She is currently studying at Harper College, and will be transferring to a four-year university to study elementary education. Jenna is looking forward to supporting the next generation of athletes to be the best teammates they can be for each other and grow as individuals. She is very excited to share her passion for volleyball and create a positive environment for her team to learn while having fun!
Coach Alina joined The Edge Volleyball as a coach in 2026. She has been playing volleyball as a setter for seven years. Throughout her career, she has developed a strong understanding of the game, specializing in leadership, court awareness, and decision-making as a setter. She has been a part of The Edge Volleyball Club since she began playing, growing up within the program and gaining experience under a variety of coaches. Her time at The Edge has helped shape both her skills as a player and her approach to the game. Coach Alina is passionate about giving back to the program that helped her grow and enjoys working with younger athletes to help them develop both as players and teammates. She strives to create a positive, energetic environment where athletes can learn, compete, and love the game of volleyball.