Marshall University Athletics
Marshall Volleyball Names Charlie French As Associate Head Coach
6/16/2023 9:58:00 AM | Volleyball
Fourth-year coach promoted to top assistant role by HC Ari Aganus
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HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall Volleyball coach Ari Aganus announced on Friday that Charlie French is being promoted to Associate Head Coach.
French, who is in her fourth full season with the Thundering Herd, has been a critical piece for Marshall Volleyball on and off the court, instilling her knowledge in players while also reaffirming Aganus' emphasis on buying in to the student-athlete experience within the university and community realm as well.
"Charlie is one of the hardest working, loyal, compassionate and driven humans I've ever had the pleasure of working with," Aganus said. She exudes everything the title of Associate Head Coach encompasses, which became evident after her first year on staff. The elevation is a no-brainer. Our student-athletes, staff and all those involved with our program are better because of Charlie."
French said that what makes her and Aganus click so well together is the shared values they possess in placing importance on people and relationships, which motivates athletes to do their best for each other's success.
"Hard work is the key. It's really the starting point," French said. "I truly believe that what you put in is what you get out of any experience. Building relationships with our staff, players and employees here at Marshall makes it easy to work hard because the love is there. We have fun through the entire process, not just the easy moments. We believe that success will naturally fall into place if you put in the hard work."
Aganus said that for players to buy in to the philosophy of playing for each other, the staff must live that philosophy. The bond she has with French is one that serves as a direct example to the players of what they are instilling.
"I strongly believe when you work with people you care about outside of the office, your passion is able to spill into all aspects of your life," Aganus said, "The chemistry that Charlie and I share is unmatched, so we're able to have fun working hard every single day. Marshall volleyball comes first in everything Charlie does. She takes so much pride in her work and our program, so the chemistry comes natural because our views are aligned."
French said that while her bond with Aganus is a leading factor of her passion for Marshall volleyball, those supporting the program also inspire her to keep pushing the envelope to help Aganus take the program to new heights.
"Coaching here at Marshall has opened my eyes to what is important in a program and environment," French said. "It is the most supportive university and community anybody could ask for. The student-athletes we have and continue to bring into this program make it a better place. Marshall is home!"
French joined Marshall's program in December 2020 as a volunteer assistant for Aganus and was named a full-time assistant coach following the 2020-21 season. The Howell, Michigan, native specializes in coaching defense and serve receiving.
Aganus added that, as Marshall moves forward in its quest for a Sun Belt Championship, French will be a key figure in attaining that success.
"I don't believe I have words for how excited I am to build the future of Marshall Volleyball with Charlie," Aganus said. "The endless work, adaptation and effort she puts into this program is inspiring. She is one of the best in the business.
"Her knowledge of the game, commitment to growing her mind and love and passion for our student-athletes has and will continue to take this program to new heights. We are building something unbelievable here, and she is a huge part of that."
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