Minden Volleyball: The Trio

<p>What does a father coach, a daughter coach, and a daughter player equal? An impressive chunk of the Minden volleyball program. Ed Rowse, head coach of the Minden volleyball team sees himself as a pretty lucky guy coaching alongside his first daughter Alison and coaching his second daughter Jensen.</p> <p>“Having a daughter on the team is an advantage in my mind.  Both girls put in a lot of time and understand the game very well.  Having their volleyball knowledge both as a coach and player is a great asset,” Ed said.</p> <p>No kidding. The entire Minden volleyball program has used their assets this year to their advantage, qualifying for the C-1 Nebraska State Volleyball Championships this week. All three Rowse’s will be either on the sideline or the court Thursday November 9^th, 1:30pm, at Lincoln North Star High School.</p> <p>The Rowse trio is all equally thankful for their experiences together. Even though they have their disagreements, respect between each other is a common family value.</p> <p>“I don't really see any downsides of being coached by my dad and sister. Yes there's probably a bit more pressure but I like that. If anything, I'm extremely grateful to be coached by them. They're both willing to put in the time for us to be successful and that's something I respect,” said Jensen.</p> <p>Wise words from a high school student. Ed may have another future coach on his hands. Jensen has also made an impact on the court with 531 kills and 57 ace serves. She is also ranked 13^th in the Prep Dig Nebraska Class of 2020. Both Ed and Alison see her value on the court as a leader and as a player.</p> <p>“Her personality and mine are pretty different and it leads to quite a few laughs,” said Alison. “We try to keep it pretty light on the court. I definitely don’t micromanage her, that would not go well! She is a smart player and usually knows what is going on, so I try to stay in sister-mode most of the time with her. My dad takes care of cracking the whip.”</p> <p>Alison loves coaching with her father and coaching her sister Jensen. Not only does Alison coach, but she approaches volleyball in a different aspect as well: as one of our very own Prep Dig Nebraska writers. Alison works on coverage of Class C-1 and C-2 volleyball in addition to coverage of the entire state. Her commitments to volleyball coaching and writing definitely keep her busy. On the coaching side, she cannot pick a favorite thing about sharing the sport with her father and sister.</p> <p>“I think the best part about being on a team with my dad and my sister is just being able share a love and a passion for the sport. We are pretty close and the time we spend together and the memories we have made and will make are so priceless to me and so much more meaningful than a win-loss record!” Alison said.</p> <p>Ed, as well as the entire Minden volleyball program, is looking forward to the Nebraska State Volleyball Championships this week. He, the rest of his coaching staff, and his players all have put in innumerable hours of work on and off the court to prepare.</p> <p>“It's a blessing to be able to take this team to state to compete and with Jensen on the team it's even sweeter let alone Alison coaching with us as well!” said Ed.</p> <p>Minden will for sure be a team to watch this week in their first round match against Wahoo. The Rowse trio of Ed, Alison, Jensen, and the whole Minden team will come ready to battle and compete on Thursday. As family sticks together, the trio is united with their team, as the team is considered family too.</p>