Leslie Owen
VHS volleyball interim coach
Tomé
It is not an ideal situation, but Valencia volleyball interim head coach Leslie Owen is determined to help the Jaguars finish out the season on a high note, including a trip to the state tournament.
“This is the type of team where a coach just gets out of their (players) way and let them go do their thing,” Owen said. “They have a lot of ability and the road that is laid out for us is the road to state.”
Melissa Marberry-Profitt resigned as Valencia volleyball coach after four years.
Owen was promoted from assistant to head coach after the sudden departure of Melissa Marberry-Profitt on Sept. 27. The former coach wrote in her resignation letter that she will, “take more time with my family and focus on my teaching.”
Marberry-Profitt told News-Bulletin she did not want to comment further at this time.
Owen inherited a team which had a 7-4 record, with the district 5-4A opener set for Oct. 10.
“In this situation, I think it is best not to rock the boat — make decisions and move with integrity, putting the girls first,” Owen said.
While this is Owen’s first season coaching volleyball, she has been at VHS four years as a social studies teacher and has been an assistant with girls’ basketball.
“I’m ready because this isn’t about me. It’s about what the girls have to offer this program and our focus will be there.
“I’ve got to roll with it” and keep the program on “the uptick. Your purpose shifts as things move. I have a duty now and that’s to these girls and to make sure they have a quality experience.”
Mike Powers spent more than 40 years as a television news and sports anchor, mostly in the Albuquerque market. He has won numerous awards including New Mexico Sportscaster of the Year. He covers a wide range of sports, including the Valencia County prep scene.
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May 2, 2024
