by Jamie Harris
Holly Palmer, head coach of the Paw Paw Lady Pirates volleyball team, has been named the West Virginia Schools Athletic Coaches Association (WVSACA) Class A Volleyball Coach of the Year for the 2024-25 season.
With nearly two decades of coaching under her belt 19 years as a head coach and seven as the middle school coach, Palmer’ s recognition is a testament to her dedication, leadership and passion for the game.
Palmer received an unexpected email from Wes Eddy (Executive Director of the West Virginia Coaches Association and Berkeley Springs High School Head Football Coach) about a month ago notifying her of the nomination. Though initially unsure if she would be selected, Palmer was later surprised when Eddy personally informed her that she had been chosen.
“It is a great honor to be recognized,” she said, reflecting on a season that saw her team compete with heart despite an early exit in the sectional tournament.
This season’ s success was built on a foundation laid years ago when the school finally allowed the formation of a middle school volleyball team. That opportunity enabled Palmer to start developing talent in grades six through eight, creating a stronger, more prepared high school team in the long run.
“By doing this we had better records, had better talent to play more than three sets a night,” Palmer explained.
Palmer credits much of her success to the support of her coaching staff and the strong bond among the players. Assistant coaches Hana Hendrickson and Karynn Kerns were instrumental, especially after Palmer had to step away for two weeks. The young assistants stepped in and continued the high standard expected in practice and games.
“Even though I returned to coaching, my state of mind and emotions were a mess but the love and support from everyone will never be forgotten,” she shared.
Despite facing a tough season with only eight players (six returning and two new), Palmer’s team rose to the occasion. She praised their determination and effort, noting that while no single match stood out above the rest, what mattered most was how each player showed up ready to fight.
Known for her philosophy of treating the team like family, Palmer believes strongly in building players up both on and off the court.
“We are not just a team inside the gym, we’re a family. Family means we have each other’s backs,” she said.
She emphasizes recognizing each player’s strengths and weaknesses, setting achievable goals and celebrating growth, not just wins.
Her team’ s practices often include creative team-building activities, including volleyball-style competitions without actual volleyballs.
“They love using balloons and beach towels to work together,” she laughed, noting that it’s all part of fostering team spirit.
Palmer also credits the close-knit Paw Paw community for being an incredible support system. “They go above and beyond,” she said. With community backing, she’s been able to schedule overnight team trips across West Virginia, exposing her players to competition and camaraderie in places like Riverside, Calhoun County, Paden City and more.
As Coach of the Year, Holly Palmer’s legacy continues to grow, not just through wins and accolades, but in the way she molds student-athletes into strong, confident individuals who are part of something greater than themselves.
