Olivia Andam is the new head coach for the Delhi varsity volleyball program is looking forward to helping the Hawks develop a strong program.
“I told our girls right away that I am very competitive even though I am kind of quiet and reserve, I have that competitiveness in me,” said Andam. “They were excited to get a new coach. I think they are ready. They seem confident in me and that is what I want them to understand.”
Andam, a Livingston native and graduate from Livingston High in 2008, was also a basketball standout during her time with the Wolves, as well as a key player in volleyball.
From 2008 to 2010, Andam was part of the Merced College basketball team before earning an offer to play at Missouri Valley College, a team that competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Andam graduated in 2013 with a degree in Biology and is currently teaching at Delhi Middle School.
“Right now I am at Stanislaus working on getting my credential while I teach,” said Andam. “Also, basketball is my sport but now that I got this position to coach volleyball I will have to step down since I want to focus on the program since I am the head coach.”
Andam takes over a program that has never established their identity.
Since 2004, the Hawks' best record came in 2006 when they went 10-13 overall and 5-11. They have won four games or less in league since then.
“I am excited for this season with them,” said Andam. “All of them are returners and some of them play travel and they are just an all around great group..”
Last season, the Hawks went 4-10 overall and 4-8 in Southern Athletic League play.
Over the last two years, the Hawks went 5-21 in SAL contests.
“They are competitive against each other but I think they have just shied away from other teams. (They need) mental focus and they need to believe in themselves because I believe in what we are doing,” said Andam. “We have to correct the mistakes.”
The task will be a tough one, especially if the team hopes to finish on top in a quality and competitive SAL.
The team will include Bianca Escobedo, Solenia Barahona and Marisol Martinez among the 12 that will be in this year's roster.
Delhi's first game will be against Venture Academy at 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
