BOSTON, MA— Simmons University Athletics is excited to announce the hiring of Grace Kenningham as the new head coach of the volleyball program.
Kenningham joins Simmons from Bates College, where she served as the full-time assistant coach. Playing a pivotal role in the program's development and competitive success within the NESCAC, Kennigham helped the Bobcats record their highest win total since 2019. Prior to her coaching career, Kenningham was a standout NCAA Division III student-athlete at Roger Williams University, where she helped lead her team to multiple postseason appearances and served as team captain her senior season. Originally from Texas, she attended high school in New Jersey and has built an impressive volleyball network across the country that will assist the recruiting efforts for the Sharks.
"I'm incredibly honored and excited to lead the Simmons Volleyball Program," said Kenningham. "Simmons' legacy of academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to empowering women aligns deeply with my own values as a coach. I'm looking forward to continuing to build a competitive program rooted in pride and growth—both on and off the court. I'm eager to get to work with this dedicated group of student-athletes and to help them continue raising the standard for what it means to compete as Sharks!"
Known for her player-centered coaching philosophy and strong recruiting acumen, Kenningham brings a passion for developing student-athletes into confident leaders both on the court and in the classroom. Her experience as both a collegiate coach and former Division III athlete gives her unique insight into fostering a culture of accountability, resilience, and excellence.
"We are thrilled to welcome Grace to Simmons," said
Erica Schuling, Director of Athletics and Recreation. "She's a natural leader and brings a clear vision for how to elevate our program while supporting our student-athletes holistically. We're confident she will make an immediate impact."
Kenningham's hiring marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Simmons Volleyball, as the program continues to grow in competitiveness within the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) and beyond.
