Assistant coach Rob Thompson is back with the Bates volleyball program for his sixth season in 2019.
Thompson, currently a teacher at Lewiston Middle School, was the founder and former Head Coach for the Cape Elizabeth High School volleyball program from 2006-2013. He also coaches for the Maine Juniors Volleyball Club and has done so for the past twelve years at the 18 Gold, 16 National, 16 Gold, 15 National, and 14 Gold levels.
Thompson earned a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from the University of New England. He played lacrosse for the university and switched over to volleyball soon after. He has been playing in adult leagues for over 20 years and has attended USAV Indoor and Beach Impact clinics as well as USAV CAP (Coaching Accreditation Program) I and CAP II courses. He is a Gold Medal Squared certified coach and has attended over 10 Gold Medal Squared Clinics.
Thompson believes it is the coaches’ responsibility to assist in the development of players by focusing on skill, sportsmanship, relationships, and the value of teamwork, without sacrificing fun. Additionally, to inspire each player to develop the confidence to maximize their potential, value the team, and love the game. Thompson values “the process” over results and tries to foster a growth mindset with athletes. In a growth mindset, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.
Thompson is currently the president of the Maine Volleyball Coaches’ Association for high schools and resides in Yarmouth, Maine with his partner Elaine and son Michael.
