All State Game Coach Spotlight Series

In the heart of Bayfield, Wisconsin, the spirit of volleyball is alive and thriving, thanks in large part to Coach Kennedi Bernia. While she may not be on the sidelines for the All State Game, her influence, dedication, and passion for the game resonate deeply within her community and beyond. With an unwavering commitment to nurturing young athletes, Kennedi stands out as not only a coach but a mentor and role model who embodies the essence of perseverance and teamwork.

A Love for the Game

Kennedi’s journey into the world of volleyball began in her backyard, watching her father deftly maneuver through games of beach volleyball. Those formative experiences ignited her own passion for the sport, which she embraced wholeheartedly as a youth athlete. “Playing with my dad was the best part of my childhood,” she fondly recalls. “Those moments taught me the importance of practice, determination, and joy in the game.”

As her love for volleyball grew, Kennedi found herself guided by exemplary coaches throughout high school and college. They instilled in her the values of reflexive, purposeful practice and the belief that success is built on trust—both in oneself and in teammates. These lessons became the foundation of her coaching philosophy: “Game play comes easy when you give 100% in practice,” she emphasizes. “It’s all about putting in the time and effort.”

Investing in Young Athletes

Over the past 4-6 years, Kennedi has dedicated herself to coaching youth, middle school, high school, and club-level athletes. Her approach is rooted in fostering an environment where players can thrive academically, emotionally, and of course, athletically. She aims to cultivate not merely skilled players, but well-rounded individuals who respect the game and understand teamwork’s nuances.

“Making sure they’re taken seriously as athletes is my top priority,” Kennedi asserts. “The time, commitment, and work they put in has transformed them to be great players. They learn the game not just in relation to themselves but as an integral part of a team.” Her athletes are not just participants in drills; they are encouraged to savor the experience of growth, both personal and collective.

The Ripple Effect: Impacting Lives

By recommending talented athletes to the upcoming 2025 All State Game, Kennedi expands her influence beyond the court. The All State Game is designed to unite elite players from across the state, giving them the platform to showcase their skills and represent their communities—a vision that aligns perfectly with her coaching ethos.

Coaches involved in the All State Game carry a vital mission: to ensure that only the most dedicated athletes are recognized and given opportunities for growth. Kennedi’s recommendations are a testament to her commitment to excellence and her keen eye for talent. “I see the hard work these players put in, and I know they deserve a chance to shine. It’s about opening doors for them,” she explains.

Building a Legacy of Support and Inclusion

One of the core values of the All State Game is inclusivity, ensuring that no athlete is sidelined due to financial constraints. Kennedi’s contributions to this initiative mirror her philosophy on coaching: talent and dedication should be the true measure of success. She stands steadfast in her belief that every athlete deserves the chance to demonstrate their abilities.

“Watching my athletes grow and knowing they have opportunities to compete at higher levels is immensely fulfilling,” Kennedi reflects. “It’s what it’s all about—championing them as individuals while helping them understand the importance of teamwork.”

Conclusion: A Tribute to Dedication

As we spotlight Coach Kennedi Bernia, it’s vital to acknowledge her relentless dedication—not just to the sport of volleyball but to nurturing the next generation of athletes. Her journey from enthusiastic backyard player with her father to a respected coach who connects young talent to statewide opportunities exemplifies the heart and spirit of coaching.

In celebrating Kennedi, we also celebrate the countless lives she has touched in her community. She embodies the principles of hard work, resilience, and teamwork—values that extend far beyond athletics. As the 2025 All State Game approaches, Kennedi’s legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, reflecting the true essence of what it means to be a coach and mentor.

Ultimately, it is clear that whether on the court or from the sidelines, Coach Kennedi Bernia is illustrating that with the right support, students can achieve remarkable things—not just as athletes, but as champions of their own stories.