**Breaking News: University of Hawai’i Women’s Volleyball Associate Coach Kaleo Baxter Departs for New Opportunity**
The University of Hawai’i at Mānoa’s women’s volleyball program has
announced the departure of Associate Coach Kaleo Baxter, who is set to embark
on a new professional challenge. Baxter, a native of Kapa’a, Kaua’i, has been an
integral part of the Rainbow Wahine coaching staff for several years,
contributing significantly to the team’s success.
**Tenure and Contributions**
Baxter’s journey with the Rainbow Wahine began in 2011 when he served as
a volunteer assistant coach, focusing on the team’s liberos and passers, defensive
systems, and serving strategies. In 2016, under former head coach Dave Shoji, he
took on the role of Director of Operations. The following year, Baxter
was promoted to assistant coach as part of head coach Robyn Ah Mow’s inaugural
staff, eventually rising to the position of associate coach.
Throughout his tenure, Baxter was instrumental in developing the team’s
defensive strategies and mentoring players across various positions. His
dedication and expertise have been pivotal in maintaining the Rainbow
Wahine’s competitive edge in collegiate volleyball.
**Background and Experience**
Before his extensive involvement with the University of Hawai’i, Baxter gained
valuable coaching experience at UC Irvine in 2015, where he was responsible
for the team’s blocking and defensive schemes, as well as scouting reports. He
also served as an assistant coach at Irvine Valley College, contributing to a
state championship title and an undefeated season in 2014.
As a player, Baxter’s career included successful stints at Irvine Valley College and California State University,
Northridge (CSUN), where he played as a
libero/defensive specialist. He graduated
from CSUN with a degree in sociology in 2011.
**Future Endeavors**
While specific details about Baxter’s next professional endeavor have not been disclosed, his departure marks the end of
a significant chapter for the Rainbow Wahine volleyball program. The
university and the team’s supporters extend their gratitude for his
contributions and wish him success in his future pursuits.
The University of Hawai’i is expected to announce plans to fill the coaching
vacancy in the coming weeks as the Rainbow Wahine prepare for the upcoming season.
Leave a Reply