Former Perry graduate Kristel Kautzky is wrapping up her first week as the new varsity Head Coach in Perry.  Kautzky is a middle school teacher at St. Augustine Catholic School in Des Moines and has spent the past two summers as an assistant with the Perry softball program.  The former Jayette outside hitter saw an opportunity to bring winning volleyball back to Perry.

“I would say two things raised my interest in taking the Perry job.  The first would be the athletes.  There is an outstanding core of  athletes to build a program around and I was impressed with their work ethic and enthusiasm.  The second was my former Head Coach (Carol) Van Kirk.  I had such a positive experience playing under Carol that now in a reverse role, I can be the leader of the program that impacted my life.”

Van Kirk will serve as an assistant coach on Kautzky’s staff.

“I have a better knowledge of the game thanks to Carol Van Kirk.  I started my high school career as a setter and made the switch to outside hitter so I understand what it takes.  We both have an incredible passion for the game in general and that enthusiasm hopefully will rub off.”

Kautzky returns a strong front line of Claire Marburger, Amy Marckres and setter Maggie Lowe.  The Raccoon Valley Radio group will continue to preview the upcoming season throughout the next couple weeks.