Volleyball’s Karen Weatherington is a passionate coach with a deep respect for the game, her players and coaches. The head coach of the Charlotte 49ers volleyball team for eight seasons, she was named Conference USA Coach of the Year in 2021. Learn more about Weatherington in this Q&A.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The biggest reward is seeing our student-athletes graduate. They put in so much time training, competing, studying and more. When they receive their college degree, I hope I have been a facilitator in their successful achievement.
What led you to a career coaching volleyball?
My dad was a football and baseball coach, and I spent lots of time with him on the court and field when I was a kid. I grew up near the U.S. Olympic Training Center and was able to be around great coaches and athletes. My parents and my high school coach, Shirley Diggs, told me I was born to lead and coach.
What would you like Niner Nation to know about the Charlotte volleyball team?
We are a group of amazing women that play a fast and exciting sport. Our team has the highest GPA in the Athletics Department and in Conference USA!
What are three words you would use to describe UNC Charlotte?
Three words I would use to describe UNC Charlotte are family, vibrant and progressive.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
I am an avid reader. I read one to two books a week and my Bible every day.
What is a fun fact about you that many people may not know?
I can do lots of voices, sounds and accents of characters.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
Don't say to yourself what you would not allow someone to say to you. Your inner dialogue has to be positive, encouraging and motivating, and you have to be your own best friend. Your thoughts, words and deeds have to align so you can succeed.