Taylor Jones | Staff Writer

Whitworth University volleyball player Saylor Anderson will be coaching next year at Mount Vernon High School.  

Anderson started playing volleyball in second grade and continued throughout middle school and high school, playing all four years here at Whitworth.

In high school, Anderson was a first team All-WESCO honoree in 2017, leading Stanwood to a league title and the state tournament her senior year. She was also varsity team captain in 2016 and 2017. 

In 2019, Anderson started 17 of Whitworth’s 27 games as a sophomore. She led the team with 41 aces. 

In 2020, Anderson played all 12 matches splitting time at setter, serving 11 aces.  

“I’m so excited for Saylor to experience coaching. Her knowledge of the game and her ability to teach and listen will be a perfect combination for her success,” head coach Kati Bodecker said.  

Anderson’s high school track coach, Jordan Sneva, is the athletic director at Mount Vernon High School.  

Sneva noted Anderson would be able to restructure the volleyball program as she sees fit. 

“He called me out of the blue in January saying that I should apply and would be a great addition,” Anderson said.  

“She will be a great mentor and role model for young high school girls,” Bodecker said. 

 Anderson’s senior year volleyball season at Whitworth was triumphant as the team went undefeated in conference. 

“This past season, our volleyball team was able to go undefeated in conference, clinch the NWC title and make an NCAA tournament berth.” Anderson said.  

The team made it to the NCAA Division III Regionals.  

“I am so thankful to have had coaches that I can look up to, both in high school and here at Whitworth.” Anderson said.  

Anderson is also on the Whitworth University track and field team.  

In high school, Anderson was awarded All-WESCO second team recognition in javelin. 

“In addition to being the head volleyball coach, I will also (hopefully) be filling the javelin coach position for the MVHS track team,” Anderson said. 

Anderson is a psychology major at Whitworth and graduates spring 2022..

“As an athlete, student and now coach, my mindset is always to give your best effort each day and strive for growth. I will continue this framework within my leadership style as a coach and use it as my main pillars for the program,” Anderson said.