Hannah Smith has been named the new head volleyball coach at Washington High School.

Smith replaces Olivia Strode, who stepped down as head volleyball coach following the 2025 season.

A familiar face at Washington High School, Smith (maiden name Leslie) has served as a biology and chemistry teacher at the high school for the past five years and has nine years of experience in education overall. She began her teaching career at St. Clair High School, where she taught for four years.

“I went through this program myself and wanted to get back into coaching,” Smith said. “My family is in a good place where I can do that, and I want to give back to the school and the volleyball program by giving the girls a positive experience playing volleyball. I’m really excited to get started and meet the girls I don’t know yet. Many of them have been in my classes, so I already know a lot of them. It’s hard having winter break right now because I’m eager to begin.”

“Hannah is an alum of our volleyball program, and we are grateful to welcome her back as our new head coach,” said Washington High School Activities Director Adam Fischer. “Her return brings a strong understanding of our program’s traditions along with fresh energy and perspective. She is committed to building positive relationships with student-athletes and emphasizing trust, communication, and personal growth both on and off the court.”

A 2013 graduate of Washington High School, Smith was a four-year volleyball player for the Lady Jays, competing as an outside and middle hitter. She earned all-academic honors all four years and went on to continue her playing career at East Central College, where she played as a middle blocker. She was an Academic All-American at ECC. Her competitive playing career concluded following her time at ECC.

Smith holds a Bachelor of Science degree in education, biology, and a Master of Science degree in education, early childhood and family development, both from Missouri State University.

In addition to her playing experience, Smith served as an assistant varsity volleyball coach at St. Clair High School for one year, where she focused on coaching defensive positions and front-row play.

“I built great relationships with the athletes at St. Clair and enjoyed helping them develop their fundamental skills,” Smith said. “That experience really helped me realize how much I value having autonomy within a volleyball program and the opportunity to build a competitive team culture.”

Smith has been involved in competitive volleyball since fourth grade, playing on traveling teams with the Washington Volleyball Club and Rockwood Thunder Volleyball Club, in addition to her time with the Washington High School program.

“Through my experiences as an athlete, teacher, and coach, I’ve learned how to manage my time effectively and communicate well with others,” Smith said. “I strive to be a positive role model for students and to create an environment where our athletes feel supported and can succeed. After taking a few years away from coaching to finish my master’s degree and start a family, I’m excited to return to this role.”

Smith said her goal is to build long-term success for the program.

“I feel really lucky to have this opportunity,” she said. “My goal is for this to go really well and to be the volleyball coach here for a long time. I believe my playing and coaching experiences give me a new perspective, and I’m excited to help build the program and move it forward.”

Smith and her husband, Ian, have three children: April, age five; Andrew, age three; and Adalyn, age one.

 

Hannah Smith is the new varsity volleyball head coach at Washington High School.