NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State Director of Athletics Kyle Brennan announced Thursday that Redbird Volleyball Head Coach Leah Johnson has signed a five-year contract extension that runs through 2027.
"Leah has built a powerhouse program that continues to push boundaries and strive for more with each championship," Brennan said. "We are grateful to have her at the helm of Illinois State Volleyball and can't wait to watch her win more championships as a Redbird."
Since taking over the Redbird volleyball program in 2017, Johnson has guided the 'Birds to a 104-53 record and five post-season appearances, including four-straight NCAA Tournament appearances. With their bid in 2021, the Redbirds made the NCAA Tournament four years in a row for the first time since 1982-1985.
"I'd like to thank President Kinzy, Kyle Brennan and Leanna Bordner for the continued privilege of leading the Redbird Volleyball program," Johnson said. "Their willingness to extend and improve the terms of my contract is just one example of the many ways they have invested in me, my family, my staff and the success of the volleyball program. I am honored to embrace the responsibility and opportunity to serve alongside visionary leaders like President Kinzy and Kyle as they grow Redbird Athletics and the university. I am fortunate to work in such a special place that respects and reflects my values and empowers me to pursue and achieve my goals."
"When we hired Leah, we knew she was a good coach," Leanna Bordner, Deputy Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator said. "It is very clear she is so much more as a leader, visionary, someone who is driven to succeed, as well, committed to develop our student-athletes in all the same areas of growth. Her unique style as a connector has been fun to watch with the media, fan base, alums and the community. She is a winner in every sense of the word, and we are excited she is leading our Redbird volleyball program into the future."
Over the last five seasons with Johnson leading the way, the Redbirds have finished in the top-three in Missouri Valley Conference regular season play every season, winning the Valley regular season title in both 2018 and 2020. ISU has won three-straight MVC Tournament titles, becoming the first team to win back-to-back-to-back titles since UNI in 2009, 2010 and 2011. Previously, Illinois State had not won three-consecutive tournament titles since 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1985 when they won four-straight.
"I do not want to miss an opportunity to say thank you to our fans, the Redbird alumni, and the Bloomington-Normal community," Johnson said. "I love and appreciate all of your support, and I can't wait to see you in Redbird Arena again soon. Finally, I want to thank the past, present, and future Redbird volleyball players. I love this team and our culture, and I am excited to build upon our past tradition of success through effort and service, while striving to grow Redbird Volleyball on a national stage. As always, go you Redbirds."
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