Sarah Stewart, a standout athlete during her high school years at St. Vincent’s, has returned to her alma mater to coach both the volleyball and soccer teams. Stewart, who was a key player in the school’s state championship-winning volleyball and soccer teams in 2017, is now leading the same programs that shaped her athletic career.
At 25, Stewart has transitioned from player to coach with impressive credentials. She played two seasons of volleyball at Mercer University before transferring to Georgia College & State, where she completed her master’s degree and played three additional seasons. This spring, she was appointed co-soccer coach at St. Vincent’s alongside Ciara Thomas. Following Nichols St. Louis’s decision to step down from the volleyball program to focus on her role as athletic director, Stewart has taken over as the head volleyball coach.
The volleyball team has had a strong start to the season with an 11-2 record. Their recent victory over rival Savannah Christian was a highlight.
“It’s special to walk into the gym and see the championship photos on the wall. It brings back great memories,” Stewart said. “I played volleyball, basketball, and soccer here, but volleyball was always my favorite. I’m thrilled to be coaching this team.”
Stewart hails from a prominent sports family in Savannah. Her brothers, Brad and Gavin Stewart, were three-sport athletes at Benedictine and both played football at Georgia Tech. Gavin now plays for Georgia Southern.
This year’s volleyball squad includes junior Kaylyn Gill, a versatile player who excels as a setter and right-side hitter, alongside middle blocker Megan Warren and libero Sophie Chu. Sophomore Ford Dewitt and junior Addison Grayson are outside hitters, while junior Ella Woelber is another setter. The team is adjusting to the loss of standout junior Briana Tuten due to a knee injury and hopes for the return of senior Anna Creel, who is recovering from an ankle injury.
“I believe this team is incredibly talented,” Stewart said. “We don’t rely on just one superstar; everyone contributes, which makes coaching much easier.”
The win over Savannah Christian was particularly significant, Stewart noted. “It was a competitive match against one of our rivals, and the girls gained a lot of confidence from that early-season victory.”
Players have responded positively to Stewart’s coaching. Megan Warren, who admires Stewart, said, “Playing for her is a lot of fun. She has really helped me improve my blocking and hitting, and our entire team has grown as a result.”
Kaylyn Gill highlighted Stewart’s focused approach. “She pushes us hard during practices. They are fast-paced, and we get things done efficiently. Our experience with the same club team, Powers Volleyball Club, has also improved our chemistry.”
Libero Sophie Chu praised Stewart’s emphasis on defense. “Sarah keeps us focused on winning. I enjoy playing libero because it allows me to stay on the court and support my teammates. Our connection from playing club volleyball together makes it great to play with friends.”
