Austin Peay Volleyball Adds New Coaching Staff for 2025

Austin Peay State University Bolsters Volleyball Coaching Staff for 2025 Season

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — Austin Peay State University volleyball welcomes new faces as Evan Amstutz, the first-year head coach, finalizes his 2025 coaching staff. Joining the Govs are assistant coaches Kristen Fritsche and Luke Van Handel, along with graduate assistant Sarah Martinez.

Kristen Fritsche, who spent the 2024 season as an assistant coach and director of operations at Cal Baptist, brings a wealth of experience and success to Austin Peay. Her expertise in developing talented players is evident in her recent coaching stint at Cal Baptist, where she mentored the 2024 Western Athletic Conference Libero of the Year and two Second Team All-WAC selections. Previously, Fritsche played a pivotal role in Stephen F. Austin’s back-to-back championships and NCAA Tournament appearances under Coach Amstutz.

"Kristen is an undeniable talent in collegiate volleyball," Amstutz praised. "Her dedication and passion make her an invaluable addition to our coaching staff."

Luke Van Handel, a graduate assistant at Stephen F. Austin, joins the Governors after a stellar career at Maryville University. As an inaugural member of the men’s volleyball program, Van Handel set team records and left an indelible mark on the Saints’ history.

"Luke’s selfless nature and instinct to nurture our athletes as both players and people will be a tremendous asset," Amstutz added. "We’re fortunate to have him on board."

Sarah Martinez, a graduate assistant at Austin Peay, concludes her impressive playing career at Arkansas State. As the Sun Belt Conference Libero of the Year and a First Team All-SBC selection, Martinez’s competitive hunger and leadership will be a paramount addition to the Govs’ team culture.

"Sarah’s ability to inspire her teammates to excel is something truly special," Amstutz commented. "Her leadership and drive will be instrumental in our pursuit of championships."

Rylie Barnum, a second-year graduate assistant, continues to contribute her talent and experience to the Governors. With a proven track record in digging and earning All-MIAA honors, Barnum’s statistical prowess and dedication to her craft make her a key part of the Govs’ coaching staff.

With a dynamic new coaching lineup, Austin Peay State University is eager to embark on the 2025 season, ready to elevate the volleyball program to new heights under the guidance of Evan Amstutz and his accomplished coaching team.

These⁣ strategic additions to the Austin Peay volleyball coaching staff signal a ‍clear commitment to ‍building a competitive and triumphant program for the 2025 season and beyond. With a blend of experience, fresh perspectives, and a shared passion for the sport, Coach Amstutz⁢ and his team are poised to make a ​notable impact on the court. ‍ The Govs are​ undoubtedly entering a new‍ era of volleyball excellence, and all eyes will be on Clarksville as their journey unfolds.
The addition of Kristen Fritsche, Luke Van Handel, and Sarah Martinez to Evan Amstutz’s coaching staff signals a new era of ambition and talent for the Austin Peay State University volleyball program.With a blend of experience, innovative coaching approaches, and a shared commitment to player development, this dedicated team is poised to elevate the Govs to new heights. As the 2025 season approaches, the excitement surrounding Austin Peay volleyball is palpable, reflecting the anticipation for a season brimming with promise and high performance.