All State Game Coach Spotlight Series

In the heart of Omaha, Texas, Laura Ashley Fortner stands as an inspiring figure in the world of youth volleyball coaching. With a remarkable 7-10 years of dedicated service across high school, club, and college coaching, Laura has transformed the volleyball experience for countless athletes, fostering not just technical skills but also resilience, self-belief, and community spirit.

Laura’s journey into coaching has been deeply influenced by her own trials and tribulations—an experience that she believes has armed her with the empathy and insight needed to guide young athletes effectively. “I got into coaching because of my own past trials, traumas, and tribulations,” she reflects. “I am a firm believer that we experience things in life because we’re here to help others.” This profound commitment to her players’ personal and athletic growth sets Laura apart, establishing her not only as a coach but as a mentor and advocate.

Creating an environment conducive to learning is one of Laura’s guiding principles. She emphasizes the importance of a structured and supportive setting where athletes are challenged yet encouraged. “The athlete needs to be given the opportunity to develop their skill level in a structured learning environment that constantly challenges them while providing both encouragement and support,” she explains. This philosophy has cultivated a team culture that values hard work, dedication, and mutual support, laying the groundwork for the success of her players both on and off the court.

Laura’s impact reaches far beyond the volleyball court. Her athletes’ recognition in the upcoming 2025 All State Game, an annual showcase of the state’s most talented players, speaks volumes about her commitment to their excellence. The All State Game, a platform where athletes from across Texas come together to represent their communities and compete at the highest level, aligns closely with Laura’s vision of elevating young athletes. “Having my athletes recognized at the All State Game reinforces their excellence on the court and in the classroom. It also serves as a bar for younger aspiring athletes who want to be in the same position someday,” she says, embodying the spirit of mentorship that is vital in sports.

Her dedication to the development and exposure of talented players resonates with the core values of the All State Game. The event aims to promote not only competition but also collaboration among elite athletes, where sportsmanship and camaraderie flourish. Each player selected for the game faces not just a personal milestone but also represents the dreams and aspirations of their community. For Laura, participation in such a prestigious event goes beyond personal achievement; it becomes a pathway for talented youth to gain recognition and further their athletic careers.

Laura’s unwavering support has also played a crucial role in recommending athletes for the All State Game, a testament to her eye for talent and her desire to see her players succeed. She understands the life-changing impact that such recognition can offer. “I am humbled to lead and serve athletes qualified to be recognized state-wide,” she states, capturing the essence of her mission. The opportunities presented through events like the All State Game provide a launchpad for young players, setting the stage for scholarships, training programs, and potential professional pathways.

As we celebrate Laura Ashley Fortner, we also acknowledge the ripple effects of her commitment to youth sports. In a world where not every young athlete has access to resources, Laura’s insistence on creating opportunities and advocating for her players ensures that talent is recognized and nurtured, regardless of financial constraints. It is this ethos that makes her not only a coach but a changemaker in her community, exemplifying the true spirit of the All State Game.

Laura’s journey, her values, and her tireless pursuit of excellence type a vital narrative in youth sports—a narrative that uplifts, encourages, and empowers. As she continues to cultivate the next generation of volleyball talent, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire athletes to strive for greatness both in their sport and in their lives. In celebrating Laura, we celebrate the heart and soul of coaching—where every achievement mirrors the commitment that goes into making it possible.