After finishing an outstanding career as a Rightside and Outside Hitter at the University of West Florida (UWF), Kierra Potts (KP) joins the Pirate family. Potts will serve as the Assistant Volleyball Coach and work in athletic development. 

Kierra proudly spent six years as a student-athlete under Head Coach Melissa Wolter, where she demonstrated excellence and leadership for the Argonauts program. She finished her playing career with 493 total kills and 145 total blocks and earned the GSC All-Tournament Team in 2022.

Potts served as Captain of the UWF volleyball team for her last three years as an athlete and played a major role in the program's success. During her time as an Argo, UWF won the Gulf South Conference (GSC) regular season championship, and GSC Tournament Championship, and appeared at the NCAA Division II Regional Tournament all five years. 

Kierra is excited to bring her knowledge, passion, and dedication to the Pirates athletics department. 

"I still can't believe we have KP working with us. She was a phenomenal leader for the UWF team on and off the court. She brings the perfect balance of grit and compassion. Her gift is being extremely humble while grinding to achieve her best. KP reminds us that compassion and competitiveness can work simultaneously. I have known Kierra since she was a Junior in High School, and watching her growth as a person and player is part of why I love this profession! She is an incredible asset to this program, and we are lucky to have her jump aboard our Pirate ship," says Head Coach Patricia Gandolfo. 

Alongside her career as a player, Potts also served as a coach for three seasons at 850 Elite Volleyball Academy, where she also played before joining UWF. While earning her M.A., she worked as a graduate assistant in the Division of University Advancements for Alumni Relations. Kierra earned a B.A. in Communication ('21) and an M.A. in Strategic Communication & Leadership ('23).