District News

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- When it comes to volleyball, a fresh sense of optimism fills the air at Union High School. With Head Coach Rabija Adanalic taking the reins, the program is embracing a new vision that emphasizes competitive success, team connection, and the holistic growth of its players.

“I believe rapport begins with consistency, communication, and trust,” said Coach Adanalic. “My approach is to create an environment where athletes feel respected, supported, and comfortable expressing themselves.”

Building a Foundation of Trust and Growth

Adanalic, now in her first season as head coach, is establishing a team culture built on accountability, resilience, and disciplined play. It’s not just about tactics or scoring points—it’s about fostering a team identity that players carry with them long after the final whistle.

“My goals include establishing a strong foundation of trust between coaches and players,” she explained. “On the court, my objectives are to improve fundamental skills, enhance communication, and build disciplined, team-oriented play.”

This new style reflects Adanalic’s structured-yet-supportive coaching philosophy. “I want the players to not only achieve success competitively,” she said, “but also to carry the values of accountability, perseverance, and unity with them beyond this season.”

Chemistry in the Making

Returning seniors Kiera Love and Ameerah Mathews say they notice the difference. There will be challenges this year, but the players agree that this year’s environment feels better already.

“I feel like the energy has been more positive, at least compared to last year,” Love shared.

Mathews added, “The energy is very upbeat and goofy.”

Building chemistry is one of the central tenets of Coach Adanalic’s program. That includes building trust between players—especially setters and hitters—because that trust helps drive the team’s offensive rhythm.

“Setters and hitters build trust by actually going for every set,” Love said.  For her, chemistry comes from constant communication about ball placement, working together to cover every ball, and trusting each other to effectively play their positions.

Junior Kamdyn Lee echoed that sentiment: “It’s about communicating where you like your sets to give you a good hit and building a strong relationship [between setter and hitter].”

Collective Improvement

This season, the Redhawks are setting their sights on more than just wins.

“I'm looking forward to watching the players grow both individually and as a team,” said Adanalic. “I’m excited to see trust and respect deepen within the group and to watch the team’s chemistry strengthen over the course of the season.”

For the players, that growth is both mental and emotional. Lee is focusing on being more vocal and confident. When asked how she can contribute to her team’s success, she shared her intentions: “Being more verbal, lifting my team up, staying out of my head, and bringing positive energy.”

Love hopes her leadership will set a tone for the rest of the squad. She said her roles include “encouraging teammates [and] giving advice on things we could improve.”

Coach Adanalic shares that desire for improvement: “I want our athletes to trust each other on the court, recover quickly from mistakes, and maintain intensity and focus throughout every match.”

With a coach who emphasizes player development and a strong team culture, the Redhawks are poised for meaningful growth. Winning is certainly part of the plan, but this season, success is being measured by trust, energy, and personal growth.