Sydney Barrett Returns to Hillsdale College as Assistant Volleyball Coach

Sydney Barrett has rejoined the Hillsdale College volleyball program as an assistant coach, announced in February 2026 . Barrett brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach to the Chargers.

A Familiar Face in Charger Athletics

Barrett is no stranger to Hillsdale College, having previously played for the Chargers from 2007-2010. During her time as a student-athlete, she helped lead the team to back-to-back GLIAC titles and NCAA Tournament appearances in 2009 and 2010. She was named an AVCA All-American in 2010, becoming just the fifth player in Hillsdale College history to receive the honor . She was also a three-time All-GLIAC player and a two-time GLIAC Libero of the Year.

Barrett still ranks fourth all-time in Hillsdale history with 1,802 career digs .

Coaching Background

Following her playing career, Barrett served as an assistant coach for the Chargers for three seasons from 2013 to 2015 . She also has two stints as the head volleyball coach at Jonesville High School, from 2015-2019 and 2024-2025 . She also volunteered as a coach for the Hillsdale College volleyball summer camp for the past decade .

Prior to returning to Hillsdale College, Barrett worked as an ECSE teacher for the Hillsdale County Intermediate School District, and previously taught at Williams Elementary in Jonesville and Mary Randall Preschool on the Hillsdale College campus .

Looking Ahead

Head Coach Chris Gravel expressed his excitement about Barrett’s return, noting her coaching experience and strong ties to the Hillsdale College volleyball program . Barrett will work alongside fellow assistant coaches Megan Molenkamp, Rick Langston, and Stephanie Gravel.

“Being a student-athlete at Hillsdale College was one of the most impactful experiences of my life,” Barrett said. “The values that define Hillsdale and its volleyball program continue to guide my life and leadership, making this opportunity to return truly meaningful.”