FORT SMITH, Ark. – Former setter Susannah Kelley has returned to the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith to join Head Volleyball Coach Jane Sargent's staff as an assistant coach.

Kelley had a record-breaking season in her lone year with the Lady Lions in 2017, earning Heartland Conference Setter of the Year honors. Her 1,300 assists were the third most in a single season and currently rank fourth all-time. She averaged 11.02 assists per set.

"I'm super happy to have Susannah on staff," Sargent said. "She had an impact on our program in her one year here and was a phenomenal player. She has established herself as a coach while having success at Missouri State University – West Plains."

Kelley joins the Lions from MSU – West Plains, where she was an assistant coach for three seasons. She coached current UAFS players Angelina Hardison and Lauren Weber while with the Grizzlies as they placed third at the NJCAA national tournament in 2021.

Kelley also played two seasons for the Grizzlies prior to signing with the Lions, earning NJCAA DI All-America honors in 2015.

Between her playing career and return to West Plains as a coach, Kelley was a coach for Fort Smith Juniors for three seasons and served one year as an assistant coach at Van Buren High School. She also taught private lessons in Fort Smith.

Kelley earned her associate's degree from MSU – West Plains and her bachelor's degree from UAFS. She earned her master's degree from Missouri State University.