Williamsburg, KY – University of the Cumberlands has built a tradition of academic and athletic excellence leading to the Patriots' countless NAIA postseason appearances and accolades for their success.  A pivotal factor in UC’s success is their dedicated coaching staff that brings a wealth of knowledge of their respective sport and works hard to ensure success in the classroom as well as being a leader in the community.  Head volleyball coach Kathryn Hart guided her squad to five 20+ win seasons while making a difference in the local community in a variety of ways, including their annual Rally 4 SPED night. 

Cumberlands, in conjunction with its corporate sponsor Legacy Ford Lincoln in Corbin,. is proud to present the “Building A Legacy” series dedicated to spotlighting Patriots coaches that have made an incredible impact in their local community.  These coaches embody the principles of the NAIA Champion of Character Program and sets the tones for their teams on the court and in the community.

Since taking over the Patriots volleyball program in 2013, Hart has made giving back to the community and making an impact a critical component of the program’s foundation.  Over her first two seasons at UC, Hart and the Patriots held an annual Breast Cancer Awareness game each October; however, they were looking for a way to make a more significant impact on the local community as the “Rally for SPED” was introduced in 2015.

Since its inception, Cumberlands volleyball has raised and donated over $5,000 to the Special Education program at Williamsburg Independent School.  The “Rally 4 SPED” is in its sixth year and includes things such as t-shirt sales, bake sales, and raffles, with all the proceeds going to help Special Education. 

Beyond just raising money, the Patriots volleyball program has embraced the West family, especially Emma West, who has become a member of the team. They could be seen practicing with her during warm-up or having Emma join them on the bench during a match and be introduced along with the lineup.

Hart’s emphasis on giving back and making an impact has been a focal point in her tenure at UC and doesn’t look like it is slowing down any time soon.  Under her leadership, four Patriot players were named the Mid-South Conference Champion of Character winner, while the Cumberlands volleyball team was named the 2017 NAIA Buffalo Fund Team Champion of Character recipient. The following summer, Hart earned the Mid-South Conference Coaching for Significance Award, for being an outstanding teacher, an exemplary role model, and a dynamic leader.

The Patriots will continue to look to expand their outreach and grow the game of volleyball in the community in the coming years.  According to Hart, one of the program's goals is to help develop the sport in Southeastern Kentucky while empowering young girls through sport and making a positive impact on the community. 

Cumberlands finished the year with a 20-11 record, including a 9-7 mark in conference games.  Coach Hart is the program’s all-time wins leader with 160-99 record since taking over the program. 

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