JASON COMPANION
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
With an unwavering love for his faith, family, and the sport of volleyball, Jason Companion stands as a prominent figure in the world of athletics. Since embarking on his remarkable journey in 1988, Jason has been shaped and guided by the venerable Coach Vince Rosa, a true paragon of excellence in volleyball mentorship on the Monterey Peninsula. Even today, Uncle Vince selflessly imparts his expertise, nurturing the boys' and girls' programs at Seaside High School, a testament to his enduring impact.
As one of the founding members of IMUA Volleyball Club, Jason's affiliation with the organization spans over three decades, encompassing a wealth of playing and coaching experience. For two decades, he has served as the captain of the formidable IMUA Adult Open men's team, consistently securing a position among the top NCVA Open teams year after year. His unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership have been instrumental in establishing IMUA as a dominant force in the volleyball community.
Coach Jason is a highly respected and accomplished volleyball advocate on the Monterey Peninsula, boasting a remarkable 30 years of experience playing and coaching the sport. He is deeply involved in every facet of the IMUA Volleyball Club, from recruiting talented athletes to organizing events, designing uniforms, managing sponsorships, and more. Over the past decade, his guidance has propelled IMUA boys and girls athletes to earn more college scholarships than all other coaches in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties combined, earning him a well-deserved reputation as one of the region's most successful coaches.
Beyond his impact at IMUA, Jason's coaching prowess extends far and wide. He spent two transformative years coaching at Notre Dame High School in Salinas, where his varsity teams achieved an outstanding ranking among the top three Division 5 teams in California. Notably, he single-handedly revitalized the women's volleyball varsity program at Trinity Christian High School, a small private Christian institution in Monterey with just 80 students. Despite initial setbacks, Jason laid a solid foundation for the program's redevelopment in his inaugural year, leading the Trinity Warriors to unprecedented success over his four-year tenure. Under his tenacious guidance, the team clinched a league championship title and secured a coveted CCS playoff bid with a thrilling victory over the formidable Pacific Collegiate High School, ascending from obscurity to triumph.
Jason's impact goes beyond coaching as he generously shares his knowledge and expertise with various high schools and training camps throughout the Monterey Peninsula. His mentoring has nurtured a generation of junior girls and boys, propelling them to Division I and II colleges, national competitions, and even the professional level. Moreover, his dedication to growing the sport extends to both indoor and beach volleyball, as evidenced by his partnerships with esteemed organizations such as USA Volleyball, AAU Volleyball, JVA Volleyball, AVP, CBVA, BVCA, and P1440. The Monterey Beach Junior Open Championships, which he organizes, stands as one of the largest junior beach competitions in Central and Northern California.
Not limited to the volleyball arena, Jason possesses a wealth of experience in event management. As the Director of Operations for Island Fever Enterprises, Monterey County's premiere entertainment company, he showcased his expertise in sales and marketing, graphic design, website design, photography, entertainment booking, branding, sponsorships, and more. Notably, he spearheaded several successful events, including the largest and most creative outdoor Pacific Islander Festival and Concerts (Monterey Bay Spam Jam Extravaganza) in the country, drawing over 65,000 attendees to the Laguna Seca Recreational Park.
Additionally, Jason's extensive experience extends to his role as the Director of Operations and owner of Hoahele Graphic Designs, a company he helmed for over 20 years. Through Hoahele, he provided custom logo design, graphic design, website design, branding development, and print design services. Jason's keen eye for design and his ability to translate concepts into visually stunning creations have garnered him a stellar reputation in the industry.
Jason's passion for community engagement and sports administration is evident through his involvement in parks, recreation, and cultural services. During his tenure as the head athletic coordinator at Fort Ord, he oversaw a wide range of athletic events, including basketball, softball, soccer, flag football, marathons, swim meets, and track and field competitions. His commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive sports environment led to the successful management of these events, leaving a lasting impact on participants and spectators.
Following the closure of Fort Ord, Jason continued his contributions to the community as the Recreation Leader for the City of Marina Parks and Recreation Cultural Services. In this role, he managed all adult league sports, special events, youth centers, teen centers, and after-school programs. Notably, his involvement in the City of Marina youth sports partnership and the NFL Youth Flag Football League resulted in the City of Marina 14u Boys Flag Football team qualifying for the NFL Flag football championships held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Florida.
Jason Companion, renowned as the "Fly in Hawaiian," was one of the top outside hitters in the country, graduating from Seaside High School. Alongside him, standout players such as Stein Metzger, an All-American setter at UCLA, and Canyon Ceman, an All-American setter at Stanford, were listed as FAB 50 of the greatest high school players in the country during the same period. Throughout his illustrious club volleyball career, Jason has been celebrated for his exceptional achievements. Notably, he competed in national 6' and under championships, facing off against ex-Olympians the Sato brothers, Gary and Eric Sato. He secured numerous awards, including the Boys 18 & under NCVA Regional Championship. He steered Team IMUA to an impressive three consecutive victories at the 6' and under NCVA Open Division and triumphed in every Adult NCVA Regional and Far Western Division Championship thereafter. In 1991, Team IMUA's 18-under Junior Boys' squad soared to unprecedented heights, clinching the top spot in all of Northern and Central California and ranking an impressive 13th in the nation. That year, Jason was recognized as one of the premier pin hitters in the country and earned the esteemed title of an All FAB 50 volleyball player emerging from high school. Jason's awe-inspiring vertical leap of over 50 inches and the ability to touch heights surpassing 11 feet showcased his exceptional athleticism and agility.
Jason Companion's extraordinary achievements and dedication to the sport of volleyball have left an indelible mark on the Monterey County community. His multifaceted expertise as a player, coach, event organizer, and designer have made him a revered figure both on and off the court. His impact extends beyond individual accolades, as he has continuously strived to foster a love for volleyball, promote personal growth, and create a sense of camaraderie among athletes of all ages and skill levels.
Off the court, Jason finds solace and strength in his faith and cherishes the support of his beloved wife, Veronica, and their four beautiful keikis (children): Janelle Kalei Companion, Nakoa Josiah Kimokeo Companion, Nohea Sharon Ka'imilani Companion, Nanileialoha Janet Makaio Companion, and their furry companion, Anemone. Their unwavering love and support have been the pillars of his success, inspiring him to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those around him.
As a devoted leader, passionate mentor, and tireless advocate for the sport, Jason Companion's legacy as a player and coach continues to grow. His unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and profound love for volleyball and his community have solidified his status as an icon and an inspiration for countless aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts. His ability to connect with individuals on a personal level, coupled with his deep understanding of the game, has allowed him to shape the lives of countless young athletes, instilling in them the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jason remains a humble and down-to-earth individual who values integrity, kindness, and family above all else. He embodies the spirit of aloha, spreading warmth and positivity wherever he goes. Jason's genuine love for the sport, his unwavering dedication to his community, and his deep-rooted passion for helping others are the hallmarks of his character and the driving forces behind his remarkable success.
In conclusion, Jason Companion's remarkable journey in the world of volleyball is a testament to his unwavering love, dedication, and exceptional abilities. His contributions to the sport, his community, and the lives of countless individuals have left an indelible mark that will be cherished for generations to come. With his passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment, Jason has transformed IMUA Volleyball Club into a powerhouse, inspiring athletes to reach new heights and fostering a legacy of excellence. His profound impact, both on and off the court, is a testament to his remarkable character and his enduring love for the game of volleyball.
VERONICA COMPANION
Director of Coach and Player Development
Certifications: NAIA Certified, USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Veronica Companion is a highly accomplished volleyball coach, known for her passion for the sport and her unwavering dedication to her athletes. She has been instrumental in developing raw talent and guiding them towards success in both indoor and beach volleyball. Her success as a coach is evident in the numerous college scholarships earned by her IMUA indoor and beach athletes, surpassing all other coaches in the Monterey and San Benito Counties combined.
As the Director of Coach and Player Development for IMUA Volleyball Club, Coach V is involved in all aspects of the club, from the summer beach club to private training sessions and indoor programs for both boys and girls. Her expertise in developing players in every aspect of the game is well recognized, and she is highly regarded as one of the most successful female coaches in the Central Coast of California.
Coach V has an impressive coaching resume that includes guiding powerhouse Notre Dame High School in Salinas to top-three Division 5 school in the entire CIF. She accomplished back-to-back undefeated seasons for the program in her first two years. She also head coached the San Benito High School varsity boys program, leading her team to the second round of the 2013 CCS Division 1 championships. Prior to Notre Dame, she was an assistant volleyball coach at Hartnell Community College and served as the assistant athletic director at Monte Vista Christian High School. She led the girls’ varsity volleyball program for four successful seasons and achieved an undefeated record in the Monterey Bay League in 2007, earning her the Coach of the Year title.
Coach V has also coached at Salinas Valley Volleyball Club and Main Beach Volleyball Club, among others. She was the interim Head Coach at Bethany University in 2005 and Offensive Coordinator for Bethany from 2002-2004. Before coaching at Bethany, Coach V played on the Bethany women’s volleyball team from 1999-2001, where she was named Cal-Pac Setter of the Year in 2001. She currently holds the all-time season assists/game record (11.59) and assists single/game record (82) for Bethany College. Coach V attended Bethany University and acquired a degree in Church Leadership-Youth Ministries.
Despite her busy coaching schedule, Coach V remains committed to her family, residing in Marina with her husband Jason Companion and their children, including their step-daughter Janelle Companion, son Nakoa Josiah Kimokeo Companion, daughter’s Nohea Sharon Ka'imilani Companion, and Nanileialoha Janet Makaio Companion, as well as their dog Anemone. Her passion for God and dedication to her family and her athletes make Coach V an exceptional role model for all aspiring athletes and coaches.
BOBBY Bluford "Coach Bobby"
Motivational Speaker
Strength & Performance Training Coach
Sports Management Consultant
Coach Bobby considers himself both proud and blessed to be part of the wonderful organization that is IMUA Volleyball Club and IMUA Athletic Foundation. These organizations share his passion for developing student-athletes into well-rounded individuals who not only excel on the court or field, but also in the classroom and in their local communities. Coach Bobby firmly believes in their mission to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being through a holistic approach that encompasses mental training, academic support, social education, physical fitness, and nutritional knowledge.
In addition to his work with IMUA, Coach Bobby also has a long-standing relationship with Coach Jason, with whom he was companions in high school. Their shared experiences have only strengthened their commitment to helping others achieve their full potential. For Coach Bobby, this work is not just a job, but a calling. He is driven by his strong faith in God and his desire to use his knowledge and skills to serve others and make a positive impact in their lives.
For more information on Coach Bobby [CLICK HERE]
MAURICE MANN "Coach MO"
Strength & Performance Training Coach
Coach Mo is a highly skilled and dedicated personal trainer with a deep passion for the game of football. He holds a certification from the National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT) and has been actively studying sports performance since 2007. In 2012, Coach Mo began teaching Sports Specific Training in Ontario, Canada, where he honed his expertise in developing top-performing athletes.
With an unyielding commitment to improving young athletes' lives, Coach Mo co-founded Mann Up Athletics Monterey and currently serves as a talent scout for emerging athletes. He is also a certified professional with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
In 2015, Coach Mo returned to Seaside, California, where he founded the non-profit organization Get Better or Get Beat (GBGB). This initiative provides valuable training, coaching, mentorship, and development opportunities to underprivileged youth athletes who would not otherwise have access to such resources. Through the GBGB sponsorship program, eligible young athletes can receive support and guidance from experienced coaches and scouts to help them achieve their dreams.
Coach Mo's unwavering dedication to his craft and his tireless efforts to support young athletes in their pursuit of excellence make him a standout figure in the sports industry.
For more information on Coach Mo [CLICK HERE]
ART berlanga "Coach b"
Mindset Coach and Mentor
Coach B, also known as Art Berlanga, is a highly experienced educator, head football coach, and motivational speaker, who has a passion for helping young people and adults achieve their personal and professional goals. He firmly believes that success is attainable for everyone, regardless of their background, age or circumstances.
Coach B has over a decade of experience as an educator and football coach, and he has been a highly sought-after speaker for various events including youth conferences, sport organizations and teams, graduation ceremonies, professional development, churches and weddings. His engaging speaking style and practical approach to success have inspired many to take action and achieve their dreams.
Coach B's dedication and leadership have not gone unnoticed, as he has been honored with prestigious awards such as the U.S. Marine Corps' Semper Fi Coach Award and the Golden Whistle Award. He has also been recognized as a Leader of the Year Feature and Coach of the Year for his positive influence on the communities he serves.
In addition to his professional achievements, Coach B is a caring and supportive husband and father, who prioritizes his family above all else. He is also a God-fearing man, who strives to live his life with integrity and purpose. Currently, Coach B resides in Salinas with his wife Jessica and their two children.
STAN PHILLIPS
Head Developmental League, Fall Clinics, IMUA Beach Coach
Certifications: USAV Beach Certified, USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Stan Phillips is a highly accomplished and dedicated volleyball coach, with over twenty-five years of experience in coaching at various levels. He is renowned for his expertise in the sport, and his unwavering commitment to developing student-athletes of all ages.
Coach Stan is currently entering his 15th season with IMUA Volleyball Club, where he is one of the most decorated coaches. He has earned the reputation of being a walking volleyball encyclopedia, and is widely regarded as an essential component of IMUA's success. Coach Stan has devoted countless hours to voluntarily coaching indoor, grass, and beach volleyball to help develop IMUA's student-athletes.
Coach Stan holds a Master of Arts in Kinesiology from Fresno State, and played for the Fresno State College volleyball club team during his college career. He has also competed with the Monterey Volleyball Adult Club Team (aka Imua Adult VBC) over the years after relocating back to Salinas.
Coach Stan's coaching resume is extensive, having worked as an Assistant Coach with Hartnell College, Head Coach at Monterey Peninsula College and Monterey High School, and Head Coach at Salinas Volleyball Club. He has also founded the Peninsula Junior Volleyball Club and the Men’s Volleyball Club at Monterey Peninsula College. Coach Stan has achieved great success, ranking as an AVA National Champion, AAA Outdoor/Grass, and AA California Beach Association.
His knowledge of the game is unparalleled, and provides depth to IMUA's coaching team. In addition to his coaching, Coach Stan was employed with the City of Monterey Recreation Department for over 20 years, where he was responsible for all youth, junior, and adult sport camps and leagues. Currently, he is teaching in the Greenfield School District.
When not coaching, Coach Stan can be found strumming his Kamaka ukulele, playing beach or grass volleyball, golfing, playing pickle ball, or tennis.
Coach Stan resides in Salinas, and has a heart of gold for volleyball and children.
FELIPE HERNANDEZ
Head Coach
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Felipe is a dynamic and driven individual, motivated to take his coaching career to new heights by joining the esteemed IMUA Volleyball Club. With a wealth of experience coaching at various levels, including serving as an assistant coach for the Hartnell College women's program, and working with Alisal High school and Diamonds Volleyball Club programs, Felipe is well-equipped to make a significant contribution to the IMUA team.
As a passionate and dedicated coach, Felipe was immediately drawn to the culture of excellence that permeates the IMUA program. He was impressed with the level of players attracted to the team and the professionalism of the IMUA staff. Meeting top-level coaches and witnessing their coaching techniques only served to further ignite his own passion for coaching, and he is eager to bring his real-world competitive spirit and engaging coaching style to the IMUA program.
Felipe strongly believes in the importance of fostering a balanced approach to player development, promoting both individual self-reliance and teamwork. His ultimate goal is to make a positive impact on the IMUA program and to help mentor and coach the talented athletes within it.
When not coaching, you can find Coach Felipe honing his skills on both indoor and sand courts, as he continues to work on his own game. With his dedication, passion, and proven coaching experience, Coach Felipe is an asset to any team, and IMUA is fortunate to have him on board.
MIRANDA HOLTZ
Coach
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Miranda is an accomplished volleyball coach with an unwavering passion for the game. Her proven track record of success, along with her ability to connect with players, has earned her respect from both her peers and the families she works with. Coach Miranda is known for her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to helping her players achieve their full potential.
As a player, Coach Miranda honed her skills at Amador club volleyball for a year, followed by four years at Team Sierra and two years with Club Prime, based out of Lodi, CA. Her leadership skills were recognized during her junior and senior years when she served as the captain of her high school varsity volleyball team. Coach Miranda also played for the CSUMB club volleyball team for three years and served on the team executive board during her junior year.
As an experienced coach and mentor, Coach Miranda creates a supportive and nurturing environment that empowers her players to grow both as individuals and as teammates. Her enthusiasm, passion, and motivation are contagious, and she consistently fosters a positive culture of growth and development. Her players thrive under her guidance, and her unwavering commitment to their success is evident both on and off the court.
In her personal life, Coach Miranda enjoys playing beach volleyball and spending time with her friends. She currently resides in Salinas and is eagerly looking forward to the upcoming season, where she can continue to inspire and elevate her team to new heights.
JANELLE MATURINO
Coach
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Janelle is a dedicated mentor, motivator, and inspiring figure to young athletes. With years of experience playing volleyball and coaching, she knows the ins and outs of the game and understands the importance of passing on knowledge to the next generation.
As a coach, Janelle understands that her role is not just limited to teaching skills on the court. It's about creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment that fosters personal growth and teamwork. She strongly believes that these traits can be carried off the court and applied to every aspect of life.
Janelle's passion for helping others extends beyond the court, as she is a Bullying Prevention Specialist with Harmony at Home. She believes that being a coach means being a role model, and strives to inspire her athletes to be their best selves both on and off the court.
Janelle's dedication to her craft is evident in the joy and success she sees in her athletes. She has coached at various schools and clubs, including Robert Louis Stevenson High School, Gonzales High School, and Fairview Middle School. In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, Justin Maturino, as well as reading, playing volleyball, and listening to music.
Coach Janelle is an incredible asset to any team, and her love and support for her athletes knows no bounds.
BRITTANY LONG
Coach
(BIO COMING SOON)
ANELA VISESIO
Coach
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, NFHS-Fundamentals of Coaching and Fundamentals of Volleyball, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
Coach Anela was one of the original IMUA student-athletes when IMUA launched it's girls division in 2008. She was an Monterey County varsity high school volleyball athlete at Seaside High School. She earned an athletic scholarship locally at California Monterey University Monterey Bay where she was a standout pin hitter for all four years.
Her positive attribute other than coaching volleyball is her mentorship and leadership which is a very important attribute for Imua Volleyball Club. She has the connection with her student athletes and enjoys sharing her love of the sport with players eager to learn and work hard. She feels there is no greater joy as a coach than to see the “lights come on” for a player in a specific skill, to know you had a hand in equipping them for success in volleyball and in life; she looks daily for ways to inspire others towards greatness and living up the standard of excellence of what IMUA is all about. You have coaches that have years on top of years of experience but have no aspirations in building athlete's morale. Her desire to establish and foster a coach and player relationship is a recipe for success. Our goal for Imua is not only building successful athletes within Imua, but preparing them for success as young women in life. At the end of the day this should be the main reason why we coach. It is not the money nor self-gratification, it's the heart for helping others succeed.
During her non coaching days Coach Anela enjoys beach volleyball and outings with her ohana and friends. She is a physical therapist assistant for Monterey Spine and Joint and currently resides in Marina.
GARRETT WILSON
IMUA Beach Elite Head Coach and Guru
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
(BIO COMING SOON)
JANELLE HERRICK
BOC Certified Athletic Trainer and Player Rehabilitation
Certifications: BOC Certified Athletic Trainer, USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and Mental Health First Aid Certified.
Coach Janelle Herrick is a proud daughter of club director Jason Companion of IMUA Volleyball Club. Growing up in a family of volleyball enthusiasts, Coach Janelle developed a deep love and appreciation for the sport from a young age. She was introduced to the world of athletic training by her father, who instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion for helping athletes achieve their full potential. Coach Janelle's upbringing in the volleyball community has played a pivotal role in shaping her professional and personal life.
Coach Janelle Herrick is a highly accomplished and dedicated professional who graduated with honors from George Mason University in 2018, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training. She is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the prestigious Janet Lozar Commemorative Award for the Outstanding Student in Athletic Training, Golden Scepter Distinction Award, and National Athletic Training Association Bolstering Excellence Award. With almost a decade of experience in athletic training, Coach Janelle has worked with athletes in all sports, including the USAV Girls' Junior National Championships, USA Beach High Performance A2 Training Camp and Pacific Zonal Championships, and The Monterey Beach Junior Open Championships.
Coach Janelle's unwavering commitment to excellence, her dedication to her craft, and her genuine love for the sport are a reflection of the values instilled in her by her family and the IMUA Volleyball Club community. She is known for her passion and unwavering commitment to her craft, and her exceptional ability to provide the highest quality care and support to her athletes. Coach Janelle's warm and supportive nature fosters a positive environment that empowers athletes to strive for excellence and reach their full potential.
Beyond her professional achievements, Coach Janelle Herrick is a loving and compassionate individual who is committed to giving back to her community. She has volunteered her time and expertise to numerous organizations, including the Special Olympics, where she worked with athletes with intellectual disabilities. Coach Janelle's altruism and dedication to improving the lives of others are a testament to her character and her belief in the importance of service to others. Her contributions to the field of athletic training and her community are a source of inspiration to all those who have had the pleasure of working with her. Coach Janelle is a loving and caring wife, and currently resides in Minnesota with her husband Dillon Herrick. In her pursuit of excellence, Coach Janelle is currently attending the University of Minnesota to pursue a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, which will enable her to further enhance her skills and knowledge in the field of athletic training.
KEVIN TRAN
Club Mentor and Supporter
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
roy powell
Club Mentor and Supporter
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
VERONICA LAMPREDA
Club Mentor and Supporter
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.
SHARON LAMPREDA
Club Mentor and Supporter
Certifications: USAV Impact, Safesport, Shield the Vulnerable, Injury and Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, AED, and First Aid Certified.