For Immediate Release: July 8, 2024
WAYNESBORO – Waynesboro Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Latoya Diggs as the new head volleyball coach at Waynesboro High School. With a rich background in volleyball as both a player and a coach, Diggs brings a wealth of experience and a strong vision for the future of the program.
Latoya Diggs played volleyball throughout her high school career, spending one year on junior varsity and three years on varsity. She continued her volleyball career at Mary Baldwin University, where she played for three years. In her senior year, Diggs began her coaching career as the JV volleyball coach at Staunton High School. Over the past seven years, she has served as a JV coach and varsity assistant, honing her coaching skills and developing a deep understanding of the game.
In addition to her coaching experience, Diggs is currently a special education teacher at Kate Collins Middle School, demonstrating her dedication to supporting and mentoring students both on and off the court.
Jake Peeling, Waynesboro High School activities director, states, “We are excited to bring Latoya on as our varsity volleyball coach. She brings a wealth of knowledge, not only about the sport but the program and community. We believe in her ability to lead our program and the athletes themselves.”
Coach Diggs is excited to bring a new level of intentionality to the Waynesboro volleyball program. She emphasizes the importance of perfect repetitions in practice, believing that precise and focused training leads to better performance. Diggs is committed to ensuring that every moment in the gym is purposeful and that the team continually strives to improve.
“I appreciate the hard work the girls are putting in the gym,” says Diggs. “It’s crucial to identify what needs improvement and help each other grow. I love this sport, and it's exciting to see the girls continue to develop. I wanted to coach because when I played at Waynesboro, it was consistent. I want to let the players know that I am present, committed, and that we can move forward together.”
Diggs highlights the potential within the current team, describing it as a “young old team,” with many juniors returning, three seniors, and promising rising ninth graders who will push everyone to work hard. Her goal is to create a family culture where every player feels supported and knows they have the potential to achieve great things. Supporting Coach Diggs will be Sam Breeden as the varsity assistant coach, Mariela Ruiz as the JV coach, and Keri Hamlet as the JV assistant coach. Together, they aim to build a strong, cohesive team that values the culture of family.
“We want people to come out and support the girls and show that the community cares,” Diggs emphasizes. “All Waynesboro sports need community support. Sports are about more than just being athletes; it’s about building people up and showcasing what our community has to offer.”
Waynesboro Public Schools is excited to welcome Coach Latoya Diggs and looks forward to a successful and transformative season under her leadership.
