WASHINGTON - Sam Steele has joined American University volleyball as an assistant coach, announced today by head coach Jenny Glenn. Steele comes to AU following a decorated playing career as a defensive specialist at Ohio University and Northern Colorado, after which she began her coaching career with the River City Juniors in LaVista, Nebraska.
"We are excited for Sam to join the AU Volleyball staff," said Glenn. "She has learned under great coaches and she will bring passion and drive to the position."
Over four seasons at Ohio, Steele was a Second Team All-MAC selection and three-time Academic All-MAC honoree. She led the team in digs and service aces in three of her four years, and helped the Bobcats to an NIVC Tournament appearance in 2022.
Steele had a stellar graduate season with Northern Colorado in 2024, totaling 517 digs and averaging 15.5 digs per match in the NIVC Tournament across four games. In addition to an All- Big Sky Second Team selection, she earned a spot on the CSC Academic All-District team as well.
"I'm incredibly grateful to join the AU volleyball program," said Steele. "I'm excited to work alongside this amazing coaching staff and our student athletes to continue AU's culture of excellence on and off the court. I can't wait to get started and see what we can accomplish!"
The Omaha, Nebraska native returned to her home state after college to begin coaching with the River City Juniors, the longest-running club in Nebraska. Over the last year, Steele coached the club's 15U team.
The Eagles begin their 2026 campaign on Friday, Aug. 28 at home against Georgetown. Season tickets and single-match tickets are
on sale now.
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