Grace Shehadeh returned to Excel in 2021 as a coach with purpose to serve the club she called “home” as a player. After playing for Excel 17 Red & 18 Red, she extended her volleyball career at Southeastern Oklahoma State University for 5 years. As an Excel athlete, she qualified in the USA & Open divisions, attending nationals both years, and picking up Prep Volleyball’s “Player that Shined” at USAV Nationals her 18’s year. Between each season of her collegiate career, Grace spent her summers training with Coach Shea & other Excel Alumni in preparation for her college seasons. 

During her 5 years at SOSU she accumulated accolades and milestones including:

• 2021-2022 Team MVP
• 2020-2021 Female Athlete of the Year Nominee
• 6th in School History for Total Digs
• 2nd on SOSU Record Book for Digs/Set
• Led SOSU Defense to 23rd in the Nation in digs
• Individually ranked among the Top 10 Liberos in the Nation in 2021 for Digs/Set
• 3x Team Captain
• Defensive Player of the Week
• Led the Western Conference in Total Digs in 2021
• Accumulated over 1,000 Digs
• 5x GAC All-Academic 
• 2x GAC Honorable Mention

While completing her MBA, Grace joined Excel in 2021 as she assisted 17 National White. Grace was able to take her experience at the college level, and apply it to her team that was passionate about playing at the next level. Beyond applying her defensive knowledge in practices and games, Grace’s top priority is player development. She believes that great teams can separate themselves from “good” teams when leadership, healthy competition, exceptional sportsmanship, and resiliency is instilled into a team. Grace’s practices are goal-oriented, fast pace, and competitive. She pushes her players to be the best athlete, student of the game, and teammate they can be, while acknowledging and encouraging her players’ improvement and achievements along the way. She believes in challenging her players outside of their comfort zone, as that’s where all growth starts. 

This upcoming season, Grace will be leading Excel’s 10 National Red & assisting 18 National Red. She’s excited and honored to make an impact in both the start and end of many girls’ club volleyball journeys.