Harris household brings family feel to Angola volleyball

ANGOLA, Ind. (WANE) – Brian and Lisa Harris still remember their three daughters racing to them after coaching a volleyball match. The youngest, Maya, scampered in oversized spandex that looked like a regular pair of shorts.

A dynamic duo of former college volleyball players themselves, the parents passed their love of the game to their daughters Brea, Ava and Maya. Years later, all three children are playing or committed to play at the college level.

While Brea is already attending Grace College, the rest of the Harris family is taking over Angola girls volleyball this season. Brian is taking over as head coach after serving as an assistant on Lloy Ball’s staff for a few years. His wife now slides in as an assistant coach. This year’s edition of Angola volleyball features Ava and Maya as a setter and outside hitter, respectively.

Not many high school athletes have a chance to say their parents served as their head coach. Even fewer can say both their parents served on their team’s coaching staff.

“Just to know I always have that support, whether it’s just for coaching or for my family, they’re there for me,” said Ava.

“I get tips on the way home from tournaments, anything I can get to better my game,” Maya said. “It’s grown a little more normal for me with having them coaching since I’ve had it most of my life.”

It’s easy to say it’s “ball” in the family when it comes to the Harris’s. Ava is already committed to play at Villanova, while Maya recently announced her verbal commitment to the University of Illinois. With Ava graduating next spring, the Harris’s are cherishing the season ahead.

“It’s going to be fun to be able to watch them continue to get better, not only as a coach, but as a dad,” Brian said. “Also as a dad of my daughter’s friends. A lot of different dynamics going on. All of them are exciting, and it’s a great opportunity for us.”

Angola gets their season rolling on Saturday, Aug. 17 against Columbia City.

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