Brianna Roberts’ mother taught her how to bump a volleyball around the backyard when she was just 9, long before organized sports were available in school. But her early love for the sport would remain a driving force in her life to this day, eventually bringing her to the head coaching position for both girls’ and boys’ volleyball at Heights High.

It was clear Roberts was a serious player when she was the only freshman to make the varsity volleyball team at Euclid High School, earning the coveted spot of libero. Her athletic path continued despite ongoing injuries and concussions – she fought her way back to the libero position after missing her entire sophomore season due to a knee injury. When her playing career ended abruptly during her freshman year at Missouri Valley College amid the Covid-19 pandemic and an asthma diagnosis, she didn’t know quite what to do with herself.

She knew that whatever came next in her life, it had to include volleyball. “Volleyball was my safe place,” she said. Eager to share her love for the sport with the net generation, she founded United Pyramid Volleyball Club, which welcomed new and experienced players from across Northeast Ohio to the Cleveland Heights Rec Center.

Her involvement in the community led her to Jasmine Harper, Heights High’s longtime girls’ volleyball coach. “I instantly connected with Jas,” said Roberts. “Heights felt like home.” The two built the program and launched the boys’ team together, despite yet another injury when Roberts tore her Achilles’ tendon practicing with the kids. “I finished the 2023 season on the sidelines in a wheelchair and then a boot. I was there out of love.”

When Harper announced her departure this year, Roberts was a natural to step into the head coaching role and lead both teams. She also works with the City of Cleveland Heights to run youth programs, teaching foundational skills early on, particularly important to the future success of the two-year old boys’ team. “I’m truly grateful to continue this program,” she said, “not just for the high school but for the entire community.”

Anyone interested in joining the girls’ volleyball team next fall or the boys’ next spring should reach out to Coach Roberts at br_roberts@chuh.org or add volleyball to their Final Forms.