July 6, 2022

Pioneer Athletics is proud to announce the hiring of Mandy Palmateer as the new head volleyball coach. We are extremely excited about this hire and are looking forward to the creation of a championship culture as we restart the volleyball program at Delta College.

Coach Palmateer has 24 years of coaching experience, most recently with Swan Valley High School.

Palmateer is holding an open tryout on July 13, beginning at 7pm in the Pioneer Gym. Please email Dionne McCollum (dionnemccollum@delta.edu) if you are interested. Must have a valid physical to participate.

Q&A with Coach Palmateer

What type of program are you looking to build?

I'd like to build a diverse program full of strong athletes-both physically and academically. I want high school players to hear about Delta volleyball and think of a family and put it at the top of their list of where they want to play! I would love for this volleyball program to become a strong presence in our community where my players can grow as athletes but also learn valuable life skills enabling them to be more productive in their personal and professional lives. 

What are the key characteristics you are looking for in recruits as you build a new program?

I'm looking for players all over the country, with strong character, both on and off the court; players who want to work hard and go the extra mile to put this program on the map. I want the Delta volleyball program to compete for national championships, but more importantly for our players to leave our program as stronger athletes and even better people. 

Who are your mentors and what advice have they given you as you prepare for this inaugural return and plan for the future?

My husband, daughter and parents have consistently motivated me to do my best. They're my all-time biggest cheerleaders. They help shag balls at practice, attend games both home and away, lead fans in cheers, and help me create a community by treating my players like family. 

Professionally, I have been blessed to learn from many volleyball coaches throughout my career in Florida, Colorado, Kansas and Michigan. They've all contributed to my coaching philosophies and have helped me shape great players and competitive teams in an environment full of hard work and fun.

Is the team ready to go for fall?

I’m really excited about this group of athletes. There’s a strong core group of women in place, however we are looking for a few more to round out the team.