When Morgan Mathews was hired as a teacher and the new Head Volleyball Coach at Italy High School, she brought expertise, energy and excitement with her. She wants her students and athletes to live up to their potential while having fun and working hard. She wants them to do their best and live for the moment because that moment only comes around once.

She graduated from Tarlton State University with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Studies. She was also a member of the Texann’s volleyball team. Previously she was the head volleyball coach at Gorman High School where her team went 3 rounds in the playoffs.

“I love the sport of volleyball and love coaching even more,” said Mathews. “It is all about each play. I try to teach the girls that they only get to do each play once, so they need to make it good. I don’t want them to have any regrets when they leave the court.”

She knows from experience that it is hard for her players to trust her in the beginning, especially if they have had several coaches. Going from coach to coach is difficult for young people.

In her classroom, she not only wants all of the kids to learn, but she wants them to have fun doing so. She stresses the importance and advantages of getting a good education. She teaches accounting, business management and technology at IHS.

“I have a lot of energy and try to bring that into the classroom and on the volleyball court,” she said. “I love being here at Italy High School. Everyone has given me a warm welcome. The parents and fans have been awesome.”

Morgan enjoys time with her husband, Ricky, and her children, Payton and Camden. They love small towns so they enjoy Italy and the people here. She cherishes the time she gets to spend with her family, playing with her kids and resting.