Phoenix Volleyball Academy
is a youth volleyball program based in central Illinois, welcoming athletes of all ages. We provide various programs, such as competitive travel volleyball teams for ages 8-18, as well as instructional leagues and clinics. Our focus is on empowering athletes through volleyball autonomy, boosting confidence, and enhancing skills, all within a positive and supportive atmosphere.
Address:
PVA is a separate entity
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE HOST GYM WITH ANY QUESTIONS!
Concordia Lutheran School & Church
2300 E Wilshire Rd, Springfield, IL 62703
Amber Stephens Director of Administration
As the Director of Administration (DOA), Amber is responsible for overseeing the financial aspects of the organization. Her role involves processing payments, handling registrations, and maintaining all necessary documentation. Additionally, Amber is tasked with organizing and executing fundraisers to support both athlete’s and PVA's financial needs. Amber boasts an extensive coaching career spanning back to 2003, where she has dedicated her expertise to mentoring high school and junior high school athletes across various schools in the area. Her coaching roles have included stints at Southeast High School, Jefferson Middle School, Glenwood High School, Tri-City High School, and respective junior high counterparts. With a decade-long tenure at the Capital Area Volleyball Club, Amber not only coached but also managed operations, assuming the directorship for five years. She initiated her coaching journey with the Ambush Volleyball Club in 2002, transitioning into coaching in 2003 at the grade school level. Amber's athletic background includes two years of play at the college level, notably serving as team captain in 2003 at Springfield College in Illinois. Outside of her coaching endeavors, Amber holds a full-time position at Levi, Ray, and Shoup as a Senior Software Billing Administrator. She shares her life with her husband, Michael, and their four children: Abi, Hayden, Andrew, and Mia. Additionally, their household includes a dog named Rudy, three cats—Dakota, Molly, and Pookie Bean— two leopard Geckos (Socks and Log) and an turtle named Ned.
WHO WE ARE:
Brittany Stewart
Director of Coaches
As the Director of Coaches (DOC), Brit will work to build a strong coaching team and making sure they have the resources they need to succeed. Her role includes helping coaches with their planning and strategies, ensuring that coaches are well-supported and can perform their best. Brit will also work to support a healthy relationship between coaches and families. Brit was the standout player at Cumberland High School, earning the title of all-conference MVP and leading her team to their first-ever state appearance in 2008. Stewart secured a volleyball scholarship at Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) in 2009 and 2010 as an all-MWAC middle hitter. During her time at LLCC, she embarked on her coaching journey, starting with LLCC's high school league and the Capital Area Volleyball Club (CAVC). Over the span of 11 years, Brittany dedicated herself to coaching with CAVC, eventually assuming the role of director for three years. She diligently pursued opportunities to expand her coaching range and deepen her understanding of volleyball. She engaged in outreach efforts by conducting camps, training sessions, and private lessons at various local high schools. Moreover, she extended her reach beyond local borders, venturing to Iowa to conduct instructional camps. In 2021, she expanded her coaching experience by serving as an assistant coach for the LLCC volleyball program during the college season. Since 2022, Brittany has held the position of Assistant Volleyball Coach at Auburn High School. Outside of volleyball, Brittany finds joy in her family life. She is married to Cody, and they are proud parents to two boys, Athan and Anden, as well as their dog, Ivy.
Brooksana McKinney
Director of Player Development
As the Director of Player Development (DOPD), Brook creates and runs programs to help athletes improve their skills. This role works with players and coaches alike to make sure training covers technical skills, safety, and mental strength. Brook will also help athletes set and reach their personal goals, making sure each player gets the support they need to grow and perform their best. Brook dedicated three seasons to leading Glenwood High's volleyball program as Head Coach before deciding to shift her focus towards coaching club volleyball and starting a family. Prior to her tenure in Chatham, she gained experience as an assistant coach at Blackburn University (BU) for a year. Throughout these endeavors, she invested nine years coaching with Capital Area Volleyball Club (CAVC). As a player, Brook showcased her talent on the volleyball court for Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) from 2014 to 2015. Her collegiate career culminated in an impressive achievement, with her team securing the title of National Runner-Up in 2015. Subsequently, Brook transferred to MacMurray College (MMC) to pursue her passion for volleyball and attain a degree in Sports Management and Business. Beyond her professional pursuits, Brook shares her life with two beloved canine companions, Carter and Cami.