OKEECHOBEE- The Okeechobee High School varsity  volleyball team  has their new coach ahead of the 2021-22 season.

Former assistant coach for the team, Jerry Veloz, has been announced as the new head coach of the program.

“Being named the head coach of the Lady Brahman volleyball program is a great honor and responsibility,” said Jerry after the announcement.

Coach Veloz started playing volleyball at the age of 12 in Cuba. In Okeechobee he has spent time as a coach with the Chobee Volleyball Academy. He coached with CVA for three years before taking a position as the junior varsity volleyball coach at OHS. Former OHS volleyball head coach Taylor Padrick made Veloz her assistant coach on the varsity squad two years ago.

Coach Padrick stepped down from the position this summer, following a string of success and playoff appearances for the Lady Brahmans.

“I wish this program even greater success than I experienced with it, and am excited to watch them in the future,” said Padrick after resigning. “This decision wasn’t an easy one. But it is time.”

Coach Veloz says he wants to continue Okeechobee recent success in volleyball and is ready to get to work.

“I believe in creating a competitive team environment where we push each other to develop our skills and techniques every day,” said Jerry. “Encouraging players and coaches to understand the importance of their roles to create a successful program. Everyone has a key part to play in the program’s success.  I know the hard work that is necessary to have a successful program and I am dedicated to pushing the athletes to those limits.  I am here to support and encourage athletes and coaches in their pursuit for excellence in volleyball.”

Tryouts will be held Aug. 3, 4, and 5, at OHS gymnasium from 8:30 a.m. to noon.