Candace Moats Achieves Milestone: 1,000 Career Wins at Indiana Wesleyan

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MARION, Ind. — A remarkable milestone was reached in the world of collegiate volleyball on Wednesday evening as Candace Moats, the Head Volleyball Coach at Indiana Wesleyan University, celebrated her 1,000th career victory. This achievement, realized in her 41st season, shines a spotlight on her enduring dedication and excellence, particularly during her 23 years at Indiana Wesleyan.

With an impressive career win percentage of 73%, Coach Moats has led the Wildcats to numerous accolades, including 11 regular season Crossroads League championships, 16 Crossroads League tournament championships, and 18 appearances in the NAIA tournament. Her tenure is further distinguished by the development of 29 NAIA All-Americans and securing both one NAIA National Championship and two NCCAA National Championships.

“This 1,000 wins milestone is truly a testament to Coach Moats’ incredible journey,” said Indiana Wesleyan Director of Athletics Deane Webb. “It reflects her lifetime of service to student-athletes, a legacy of sustained success, and her commitment to honoring the gifts bestowed upon her by God. We are all proud and grateful for her unwavering dedication throughout the years.”

The significance of this achievement resonates deeply with the student-athletes she mentors. Eva Joldersma, the 2023 NAIA Player of the Year, expressed, “This is a huge accomplishment! Coach Moats constantly pushes us to excel both on and off the court. I am grateful to have a coach who cares about our spiritual growth and personal development as much as our athletic success.”

Reflecting on her path, Moats never initially envisioned a coaching career. It was her college coach who inspired her to take the helm at Crown College, where she first claimed two NCCAA national championships. “God has been faithful to me,” Moats shared, acknowledging that sometimes divine plans lead us in unexpected directions. “He has guided me to where I needed to be and surrounded me with the right people to help me achieve this milestone.”

Her journey of faith led her to spend reflective moments under a tree on her campus, inspired by the message of Genesis 12, which speaks to embracing new opportunities and trusting in a greater plan. This introspection propelled her to Grace College, where she secured two Crossroads League regular season championships and another NCCAA National Championship, ultimately leading to her storied career at Indiana Wesleyan.

In her first season with the Wildcats, Moats won 40 matches and claimed the Crossroads League tournament championship in each of her first seven seasons. Last year, she achieved a pinnacle moment, leading her team to their first NAIA National Championship with a perfect 38-0 record, culminating in a dramatic comeback victory against No. 1 Northwestern (Iowa) in the championship match.

Junior Abbigail Porter lauded her coach’s influence, stating, “I am forever thankful for the opportunity Coach Moats provided me as a walk-on player and for her unwavering support in my development. This accomplishment is truly amazing, and we are all so happy for her!”

Moats attributes part of her program's success to Assistant Coach Dan Bergren, whose expertise and commitment have been vital in shaping the Indiana Wesleyan volleyball program into a competitive powerhouse.

Senior Martina Demarchi echoed this sentiment, saying, “I am grateful for the opportunities Coach Moats has given me both on and off the court. Her leadership has elevated our program, and last year’s national title exemplifies that dedication. Congratulations on 1,000 career wins!”

In her moment of reflection, Moats expressed her gratitude: “I am thankful to God and to all the student-athletes, assistant coaches, and support staff who have fully committed to this program. Together, we have reached this remarkable milestone of 1,000 wins.”

With Coach Moats at the helm, the future of Indiana Wesleyan volleyball shines brightly, embodying a legacy of success and inspiration.