Green Bay Tabs Franklin to Lead Volleyball Team

GREEN BAY, Wis. -- The Green Bay volleyball program announced Tuesday that it has hired Michaela Franklin as the team's new head coach.

The fourth volleyball coach in Phoenix history, Franklin takes over the program having spent the past four seasons as an assistant at Marquette.

"I would like to thank [Director of Athletics] Ken Bothof and the entire hiring committee for their time and dedication,” Franklin said in a release issued by the school. “I am ecstatic for the opportunity of becoming the next leader of the Green Bay volleyball program.  As I went through the process, it was made very clear to me that everyone at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay has the same passion, intensity and drive as I do in assisting the student-athletes in being successful both academically and athletically. I look forward to competing in the Kress Center, one of the nation’s premier athletics facilities.”

Franklin played collegiate volleyball at Kansas State, leading the Wilcats to a Big XII championship and three berths into the NCAA Tournament. She graduated from KSU in 2005 with a bachelor's degree in family studies and human services.

While at Marquette, Franklin helped guide the Golden Eagles to NCAA Tournament appearances in 2011 and 2012, working primarily with outside hitters and as the program's defensive coordinator. Additionally, Franklin led the charge on the recruiting front for Marquette.

Prior to her work with the Golden Eagles, Franklin assisted at Northern Illinois from 2006-08.

Outgoing coach Debbie Kirch resigned in November after 16 years of leading the Phoenix and now works as an Assistant AD at Green Bay. As part of her new duties, Kirch is the sport supervisor for volleyball.

“We are excited to have Michaela join our staff,” Kirch said in the release. “I truly appreciate the professionalism and passion for the sport of volleyball that she displayed throughout the search and screen process. She is going to be a great fit, not only for our volleyball program and athletics department, but for our university as well.”