On Tuesday afternoon ETSU Athletics announced Benavia Jenkins, former head volleyball coach, has accepted a position as associate head coach at the University of Michigan.
Jenkins started as the head coach in 2019 and served until the conclusion of the season in 2022. She was voted the 2022 SoCon Coach of the Year, leading the Bucs to their first regular season championship since 2018 this past season.
“We want to thank Benavia for everything she has contributed to the ETSU volleyball program, the university and our region,” said Richard Sander, ETSU athletic director. “She has been a great ambassador to ETSU and an excellent leader for our student-athletes both on and off the court. We wish Benavia and her family nothing but great success at the University of Michigan.”
She leaves the Bucs with an overall coaching record of 64-40 and leading the Bucs to two Southern Conference regular season titles.
“While I’m excited for the new opportunity ahead of me, leaving ETSU and great working relationships – like this one – is definitely bittersweet,” said Jenkins. “Thank you to the ETSU volleyball program, and parents, for trusting and believing in the culture that was built.”
Jenkins shared she is overwhelmed with emotion about the opportunity and what lies ahead.
“I will truly miss every student-athlete, and the good laughs and dance parties. As I am very excited for the new journey for my family, I want to especially thank head coach Erin Virtue for giving me the opportunity to work alongside of her at the University of Michigan.”
Giovanny Delevry will serve as the interim head coach while a national search begins to fill the position.
