West Liberty, W.Va. – West Liberty University Director of Athletics, Brad Forshey, did not have to look far to find the next head coach of the Hilltopper volleyball program as Tuesday afternoon he announced the hiring of Makenzy Johnson. After helping the team continue its climb to new heights with their second straight NCAA Tournament bid as a graduate assistant coach in 2023, she now takes the reins as the tenth head coach in program history.

"After a very extensive search we are tremendously excited to announce Makenzy Johnson as the next head women's volleyball coach," stated Forshey. "Coach Johnson was very impressive in her interviews and shows a true passion for West Liberty University.  We are confident in her abilities to continue the growth of our women's volleyball program."

In her lone season as a graduate assistant in 2023, the Hilltoppers went 23-10 (10-4 MEC) en route to a second place finish in the leagues' north division and second straight NCAA Tournament appearance. During the year she worked extensively on coaching the defense, serve receive, and pin hitters as she helped guide four athletes to all-conference honors. Returning All-MEC athletes include Dakoda Keni (All-MEC Honorable Mention & All-MEC Freshman Team) and Liv McAtee (All-MEC Honorable Mention) who will provide a strong core to continue building around. She also assisted in coaching Nyia Setla to her second consecutive MEC Libero of the Year honor, a pair of All-Region accolades, and AVCA All-American Honorable Mention status.

"It was clear in the interview process that Coach Mak brings an energy and passion for the game as well as West Liberty University that is centered around the student-athlete experience," exclaimed Cassie Seth, West Liberty University Senior Women Administrator. "Her vision for continued program success on the court, in the classroom, and in the community was clear and we are excited for it to be put into action as the next leader of our volleyball program."

Prior to arriving at West Liberty University, Johnson played collegiately at Norfolk State University (2018-20), University of Charleston (2020-21), and Virginia State University (2021-22). She saw action on the court as a setter at each of her three stops, playing in 339 sets and tallying career totals of 128 kills, 1,269 assists, 103 aces, 475 digs, five blocks, and 234 points.

"I'd like to thank Brad Forshey and the entire search committee for the opportunity to lead the future of the West Liberty volleyball program," said Johnson. "I am excited to continue to work with the student-athletes on this team and look forward to carrying on the success of the volleyball program and the culture of our athletic department while nurturing the individual growth of our athletes. I am most grateful to call the Hilltop my home!"

Johnson and the Hilltoppers will get the 2024 season underway on September 6 as they face East Stroudsburg and D'Youville on the opening day of the Ashland Tournament in Ashland, Ohio.