by Addison Fouts

Head coach Wes Briscoe is making his mark as Jeff High’s volleyball coach, bringing energy and leadership to the Red Devils’ program. 

This year marks Briscoe’s’ 25th year of coaching; he has coached in five state finals, and has also been awarded coach of the year honors for both girls’ and boys’ volleyball. His girls’ volleyball team heads into sectional play tonight against New Albany.

Briscoe’s focus, however, is on his teams’ successes.

“I don’t ever have any personal goals in coaching, because it’s not about me. I’ve done just about all there is to do in coaching high school athletics,” he said. 

There is no denying Briscoe’s success when it comes to coaching. 

“I want everybody to become the best versions of themselves,” he said. “My job is to figure out how to get them to see that they are more than what they believe they are.”

Pushing his players to be the best versions of themselves is just a small part of what Briscoe does for his players as a coach.

“He made me realize that I can always be better, and that I always have room for growth,” stated varsity captain Anthony Ganchuluun, a senior. “I mean without him, I don’t think I’d be anywhere near as disciplined as I am.”

It’s a testament to the culture that Briscoe has built at Jeff High. 

“I’ve learned a lot over the past years being a player for Coach Wes,” said varsity captain Riley Dobson, a senior. “He’s taught me that putting in the extra work does pay off and your time will come right when it is supposed to.”

Beyond the court, Briscoe’s influence is felt in the classroom and community. Players describe him as more than a coach, but as someone who encourages them to succeed in all aspects of life. 

For him, though, his goal is to better all of his players.

“I just want to see people understand what it takes to play at the elite level that they think they want to be at, and just keep encouraging them to put in the work so they can get there.”  

Briscoe has one goal in mind, and it is to grow his players. He cares more about his players’ integrity and leadership than how they play on the court.