Laura Evans to leave Blue Devil volleyball program

MENOMONIE (January 31, 2018) – After four seasons as the head coach of the UW-Stout volleyball program, Laura Evans is leaving the program to relocate with her family to southern Minnesota.
 
"The statement 'time flies when you are having fun' really applies to this job," Evans said. "And I would put the word "job" in quotes.  This is just an amazing job.  I have cherished the relationships here and the hard work the players have put forth."
 
Evans took over the Blue Devil volleyball program in 2014, leading the team to a 20-10 finish, the Blue Devils' first 20-win since the 2004 season. Evans' teams produced nine All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) selections over her four years. She finished with a 60-62 overall record.
 
Evans also served as the coordinator of sports clubs for University Recreation for three years and was an instructor in the Health, Wellness and Fitness program.
 
"When I think about my time here, everyone had a growth mindset," Evans said. "Everyone wanted to learn, and it was more than just volleyball.  We want to apply what we learn outside of volleyball, and I think that has helped me as a mother.  I have learned something from every single player."
 
"Laura leaves our program in good shape with a solid group of players intact," athletic director Duey Naatz said. "We wish Laura and her family nothing but the best and thank her for her commitment to UW-Stout."
 
"I would like to thank our administration and staff, the volleyball staff, Pam Schroeder and Mandy Trautmann and the team managers," Evans said. "I was supported by everyone. They were never too busy to help."
 
Evans' husband, Jared, is a pharmaceutical sales representative and recently transferred from Wisconsin to the Twin Cities and southern Minnesota area. The couple has a son, Grady.
 
The search for a head volleyball coach will begin immediately, Naatz said.