Former Sand Cat Makenna Martin Joins Coaching Staff as Volunteer Assistant Coach

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Head Coach Steve Walker has announced that former Arizona Sand Cat Makenna Martin is joining the coaching staff as Volunteer Assistant Coach. 

"It comes with great excitement that we are able to bring Makenna back to campus in this role," Walker said. "Even though she is just now embarking on what promises to be an outstanding career as a coach at this level, Makenna possesses so many qualities that would benefit any program. She has an unyielding work ethic, top notch leadership skills and will be able to teach players of all levels how to not only execute the skills, but speak from experience on how to perform under any condition."

Martin began her career at the University of Arizona in 2016 where she was a crucial part of Arizona's indoor volleyball back line. After a season in the back she took over the indoor libero position full time where she spent a majority of the next two seasons finishing in the top spots on the team in both digs and aces. During her indoor career she finished in the top-10 in the Pac-12 for both digs and sets and was named Pac-12 All-Academic honorable mention twice. 

Her three seasons with Arizona Beach Volleyball were interrupted by the Covid-19 Pandemic but Martin did not let this hinder her performance. In her first season ('18) she recorded an individual record of 14-14 with four different partners. Her second season ('20) was cut short due to the Coronavirus. In her third and final season on the beach she was one of two undefeated Wildcats with an individual record of 3-0. 

"I am so grateful and excited for this amazing opportunity," Martin said. "I can't wait to learn, grow and have fun with such an incredible group of individuals this season! As always, GO CATS."

Martin earned an undergraduate degree in Mild to Moderate Disabilities and a Master's degree in Special Education.