September 7, 2024
ROME, Ga. — As we enter a new era of Shorter University Athletics, officially joining Conference Carolinas on July 1, 2024, we are thrilled to announce that Taylor Watson has taken over the Shorter volleyball program as the interim head coach for the 2024-2025 season. Coach Watson will be entering her third season at Shorter University. Watson served as a graduate assistant in 2022, assistant volleyball coach in 2023, and started the University's first developmental volleyball program in 2023.
Watson comments on her new position, "I am blessed beyond measure and eager to get back on the court in August. Our squad has some unique talent entering and returning. We are ready to create a name for Shorter University volleyball within Conference Carolinas and across NCAA Division II. God has given me a special opportunity to lead these athletes through Christ and humility. We are excited for what God has in store for us as a program!"
In addition to the head coaching change, the Shorter University Athletic Department welcomes Joshua Paul as assistant coach for the varsity program and head developmental coach. Coach Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the VolleyHawks this upcoming season. Paul's addition to the program will help the volleyball team continue to strive for success and develop a memorable championship culture as we enter a new era of Shorter Athletics.
Paul, a Georgia native, brings extensive experience, including a distinguished career at the club level. Coach Josh Paul is the founder and owner of USAV/SRVA volleyball club, Walton Elite, based in Monroe, Ga. While building Walton Elite from the ground up with one team in the 2019 club season, he now oversees 11 teams. Fostering multiple national-level teams and sending more than 20 players to the collegiate level in only five years, Paul is no stranger to recruiting and the collegiate level. Paul has worked alongside multiple NCAA Division I coaches in the camp realm and continues to grow his knowledge of the game. Paul gives his thoughts on joining the volleyhawks for the 2024-2025 season, "I'm excited and humbled for the opportunity to be a part of the Shorter family. There is no other feeling quite like helping young athletes further develop their determination, discipline, work ethic, heart, and respect for others, not only in competition, but in life."
Speaking on the introduction of Coach Paul, Watson said, "Josh is going to be a key piece in the elevation of our program and helping create a successful culture for years to come. Josh brings a wealth of knowledge and drive to the program here at Shorter. I couldn't ask for a better right hand to have alongside me as we enter Conference Carolinas. He genuinely puts the athletes first and has a drive to create a name for Shorter University while keeping Christ at the center of it all. We are truly blessed to welcome Josh to Shorter volleyball."
Coach Paul will also be stepping up as the developmental head coach as they go into their second season. He is well-versed in developing athletes and fostering an environment of growth for his players. Paul comments on stepping up as the head coach for the developmental team in 2024, "I am excited to lead this talented group of young athletes. I know they will be willing to put the work in. I will refuse to let them be anything but the best they can be. I can't wait to get in the gym and get to work!"
Please join us in welcoming both Watson as the interim head coach and Paul as the assistant coach for varsity and head developmental coach for the 2024-2025 season.
