Ellsworth’s Amy Johnson

By Matt Browning

Amy Johnson, the volleyball coach at Ellsworth, was chosen as the Salina Regional Orthopedic Clinic Coach of the Month. Johnson, who is in her 21st year as head coach, has led the Bearcats to being one of the top teams this season.

“We knew that we’d be much improved this season, only losing one senior off of last year’s team,” Johnson said. “Hitting 20 wins this past weekend was a big step and we plan to add to that total.”

Johnson’s coaching philosophy has very little to do with X’s and O’s. Her focus is on building a culture in her program. “We stand for family first and supporting each other,” Johnson said. “Respect of others (officials, opposing teams, teammates, coaches, parents, and fans) is a must in our program. The little details are so important, including fundamental work every day.”

While there are players who might have more ability than others, there is no player that has more importance than any other.

“Each and every young lady, from top to bottom, is equally important to our program,” Johnson said. “We work with the junior high coaches and include them in our volleyball family.”