For many years, the gym at Potosi High School was more than just a place to practice volleyball. It was a second home. Practices were long, seasons were challenging, and expectations were high, but the foundation of the program was always the same: relationships, trust, and hard work. For longtime coach Jolene Murray, who helped shape Potosi volleyball into a dominant program, those values made every moment worth it.
Looking back on her coaching career, Murray admits that not every season was easy. “Some years were definitely tougher than others, depending on the players I was working with and the success we were having.” Still, her passion for the sport never faded. Even during difficult seasons, she explained that “it was always enjoyable enough to keep coming back either way.” The only time Jolene stepped away from coaching was not due to burnout, but to focus on coaching her children when they were in a different school district.
Like any long-term coach, Murray faced many challenges along the way. One of the most difficult parts of coaching was managing strong personalities on a team. “Sometimes, when you had strong personalities playing together, you could have conflicts among the team that you had to work to resolve to have success,” said Jolene. Playing time was also a frequent issue, especially at the varsity level. With limited rotations and many talented athletes, some players and parents felt frustrated. “This could create issues with players or parents thinking that their daughter should be playing more.”
One of the most challenging moments of Murray's career came during the 2020 season. While teams everywhere were dealing with COVID-19 disruptions, she faced a personal health crisis as well. “I underwent an emergency brain surgery during the 2020 season.” Despite everything going on, she made sure the team was supported before stepping away. With help from trusted colleagues, the program continued. “They did a fantastic job, but it was very hard to step away during that time.”
Even with all the success the program achieved, not every season ended in victory. Murray was open about the fact that rebuilding years were part of the process. “We definitely had some years where we struggled,” She said, especially after graduating talented senior classes. However, those successful teams often inspired younger players and helped strengthen them.
When asked what mattered most in building winning teams, her answer was clear. “One of the most important parts of coaching is developing relationships with your players.” She emphasized that team bonding and trust were priorities every season. Practices weren't just about drills; they were about connection. She also believed playing in the offseason was essential, giving athletes more chances to grow and enjoy the sport.
That mindset helped create a culture where success became contagious. “With the idea of hard work and fun, you can't go wrong.” As teams started to win, younger players began to imagine themselves as part of that success, creating a lasting winning culture at Potosi.
In her total of 12 years as head coach at Potosi High School, from 2001-2008, 2014, and 2019-21, Murray and her teams managed three state appearances, winning one gold, one silver, and making one more final four appearance. They also won six regional titles, three sectional titles, and five conference championships. Retirement definitely wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right one. She explained that health concerns made stepping away necessary. Still, the memories remain. “I coached at some level for 30 years and had a lot of amazing memories from it all.” Murray was awarded by the WVCA for her accomplishments when she was inducted into the Wisconsin Girls High School Volleyball Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame on December 14th, 2025.
Today, she looks back on her time as a coach at Potosi with gratitude. From great players to lasting relationships, Murray’s legacy reaches far beyond the court. “I feel very satisfied and blessed with the opportunities I had.” The feeling is shared by the many athletes whose lives she helped shape.