Independence High School is proud to welcome Grace Smotek as the new Head Coach of the Boys Volleyball Team. A 2021 graduate of Independence High School, Smotek returns to her alma mater to lead the program in her first year as head coach.
A standout student-athlete during her time at IHS, Smotek helped guide the Blue Devils to four consecutive state Final Four appearances, earning First Team All-Ohio, All-District, and All-Conference honors. She also participated in track and was a dedicated student, graduating with an honors diploma while earning a place on the honor roll and serving on the student council.
After high school, Smotek continued her volleyball career at Notre Dame College (NDC), where she excelled as an outside hitter and defensive specialist. During her collegiate career, she earned Academic All-MEC honors and consistently ranked among the team leaders in kills, digs, and service aces.
Some of her collegiate highlights include:
2021: 198 kills, 306 digs, and five double-doubles while starting 23 matches.
2022: Ranked second on her team in digs (296) and service aces (31).
2023: Appeared in 15 matches, totaling 39 kills, 73 digs, and six aces.
Smotek, who graduated with a Primary Education degree, has also been recognized with the Academic Achievement Award and Dean’s List honors at NDC. She completed her education at Lake Erie College, where she continued to excel academically.
“I am incredibly excited and honored to be named the head coach of the boys volleyball program at my alma mater. Growing up and playing for the girls’ program here had a huge impact on me, and to now come full circle and lead the boys is truly special. Becoming a head coach has always been a dream of mine, and being able to do it at a place that shaped me as both a player and a person means so much. I am grateful for my time at Independence and can’t wait to give back to this community that has given me so much. I’m looking forward to the season and the opportunity to build something great with this team,” said Smotek.
Smotek credits her former IHS coaches, Megan Osysko, Anthony Messina, and Gina Kilner, for inspiring her passion for the game and shaping her leadership style.
“We’re thrilled to have Grace back at Independence,” said Athletic Director Danny Zillich. “As an alumna, former All-Ohio athlete, and collegiate standout, she knows what it takes to compete at a high level—and more importantly, how to build a strong team culture.”
Smotek is excited to return home to the Blue Devil community and help guide the next generation of student-athletes both on and off the court.