All State Game Coach Spotlight Series

As the sun sets over the evergreen hills of North Carolina, the gymnasium at Cherokee Middle School comes alive with the sound of volleyballs thumping against the polished wooden floor. At the center of this spirited environment, one coach stands out as a champion not only for her athletes but for the entire community: Taran Swimmer. While she may not be an official coach at the upcoming All State Game, her unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent and cultivating a culture of excellence is deeply felt among players and families alike.

A Lifelong Passion for Coaching

Taran Swimmer’s journey in volleyball is rooted in a deep family tradition. Raised by her mother, Tina, a multi-sport coach herself, Taran was enveloped in the world of athletics from a young age. As a self-proclaimed “sideline kid,” she observed various coaching philosophies and learned valuable life lessons even before stepping onto the court herself. Yet, it was the legacy of the late Bugger Arch, a revered figure in local sports, that truly shaped Taran’s coaching ethos. Arch’s ability to balance toughness with compassion resonates deeply in Taran’s interactions with her own athletes.

Turning Struggles into Strength

“Growing up, our volleyball program had its challenges,” Taran recalls. “We were often seen as the underdogs—almost an afterthought.” This realization sparked a fire within her. Taran was determined to transform the existing narrative surrounding Cherokee’s volleyball program. After competing in club volleyball through university, Taran took on the role of head middle school coach at her alma mater.

“Some might call it a gamble, but I saw it as an opportunity,” she remembers. With grit and determination, she laid the groundwork for a revitalized program. Over the years, under her guidance, the middle school volleyball team achieved unprecedented success, clinching three consecutive conference championships, going undefeated in two of those seasons, and establishing a program that now attracts around 40 eager girls each year at tryouts.

Cultivating Confidence and Community

More than just trophies and accolades, Taran’s coaching philosophy has always focused on building confidence among her players. “A great coach shouldn’t want their players to be just as good as they are; they should want their players to surpass them in every single way,” she states passionately. This belief is evident during practices where the successes of her players are celebrated earnestly—whether they ace her with a serve or block her during drills.

“It’s about the looks in their eyes, the smiles on their faces—they carry themselves differently after experiencing those victories,” Taran explains. Instilling this sense of empowerment is at the core of her coaching strategy, fostering not only skilled athletes but also confident young women ready to tackle challenges beyond the court.

A Legacy of Talent

As Taran prepares to nominate her most promising athletes for the 2025 All State Game, her pride is palpable. It is a challenging endeavor for her, as her players are all remarkable in their own right. “Selecting from such a talented pool was incredibly tough,” she admits. Yet, her excitement for their opportunity is infectious. “Playing alongside some of the best will not only enhance their skills but could change their perspective as they move into high school. I hope it emboldens them, giving them the confidence they need to succeed.”

The Road Ahead

The road to the All State Game symbolizes more than just a competitive opportunity for these athletes; it represents Taran’s profound commitment to their growth as individuals. Each recommendation she makes is a testament to her belief in their potential, a continuation of her mission to enhance youth sports and facilitate exposure to elite levels of play.

In reflecting upon her coaching career thus far, Taran Swimmer embodies the spirit of resilience, community engagement, and unwavering passion. Her journey serves as an inspiration not only to her athletes but also to her community at large. As Taran continues to build a legacy rooted in strong values and dedication to her athletes, it’s clear that her impact on the lives of these young volleyball players will resonate far beyond the courts of Cherokee Middle School and into the broader arena of youth sports.

As the sun sets and the echoes of volleyballs fade into the twilight, Taran Swimmer remains steadfast in her mission—to inspire, empower, and pave the way for the next generation of champions. The 2025 All State Game will indeed be celebrating not just exceptional talent but also the incredible mentors like Taran whose guidance shapes the future of youth athletics in North Carolina.