About us
Michelle and Sara
FOUNDERS & COACHES
Michelle Hillaby
Michelle began coaching volleyball as a Grade 12 student in 1991 and has been immersed in the sport ever since. She continued coaching through university and into her career as a high school science teacher, joining the coaching staff at Sherwood Park Volleyball Club under the mentorship of the legendary Ken Briggs.
After stepping away during early motherhood, Michelle returned to coaching when her daughter entered Grade 5 — and hasn’t looked back. She currently coaches at L.V. Rogers High School, serves as the U16 coach for Nelson Volleyball Club, and coaches the BC Summer Games Zone One team. Michelle has also led numerous local camps with VBC and looks forward to expanding summer camp offerings.
Her coaching is grounded in experience, curiosity, and a deep commitment to athlete development.
Sara Smith
Sara’s volleyball journey began in Sherwood Park, Alberta, where she won the 4A High School Provincial Championship in 1996. She continued playing at MacEwan University, capturing ACAC championships and earning a silver medal at Nationals.
Recognizing she had more heart than raw talent, Sara shifted her focus to academics — but never left the game behind. She began coaching alongside her father and mentor, Ken Briggs, where she met Michelle, beginning a lifelong friendship and coaching partnership.
After completing chiropractic school, Sara coached at Central Memorial High School in Calgary before stepping away to focus on family and career. Following three years living abroad in London, UK, her family relocated to Nelson in 2020 — where a single volleyball camp reignited her coaching passion.
Sara co‑founded the Nelson Volleyball Club to create opportunities for local athletes. What began with two teams quickly grew to 11 teams in three years. She has coached LVR Junior and Senior teams, progressed with NVC athletes from 15U to 17U, and led her team to Division 2 Gold at Provincials in 2025.
