Karin Parkhurst

"At Norwich I can help create an environment to foster leadership not only on campus but beyond. As an alum here at Norwich, I have come full circle and fulfilled a lifelong dream to coach at my alma mater — what could be better than that?"

I am humbled to be able to come back to Norwich as the head volleyball coach,” stated Coach Parkhurst '96 upon being named as the new volleyball coach heading into the 2024-25 season. Her appointment has infused a fresh energy and direction in the program. 

Emphasizing the establishment of a robust foundational culture, she’s poised to lead a transformational change in the program in the upcoming years.

Drawing from her journey as a multisport athlete and student trainer at Norwich, Coach Parkhurst wields a one-of-a-kind insight that empowers her to phenomenally serve the program. This unique perspective allows her to help the student-athletes understand how to take advantage of and to balance the many opportunities which Norwich students have throughout their educational journey.  

Carrying Norwich University’s motto “I Will Try” in her heart, she inspires her team to strive for greatness beyond perceived limitations. It embodies pushing past temporary discomfort, including attempting new experiences, to build a true growth mindset. Leveraging her broad experience, she fosters an environment of immense growth, benefiting everyone in the program. No doubt, her influence will leave a lasting impact.

“It’s always great to add an alum to our coaching staff, and Karin’s love for Norwich and desire to give something back to today’s students were clear to us in the interview process,” stated Norwich University Director of Athletics Ed Hockenbury. “As a former student-athlete as well, Karin brings not only strong coaching credentials, but also the experience at Norwich that allows her to relate to the joys and challenges her athletes will go through. Karin will be an outstanding leader and role model for the young women on our volleyball team, and I look forward to supporting her as she helps our program grow.”

Q&A with Head Coach Parkhurst

What brought you to becoming a coach for your sport?

I became a coach for volleyball first for the love of the sport, and second for the impact that I as a coach can have on an athlete that will help develop their leadership abilities.

What excites you about this sport?

What excites me about the sport of volleyball is that it is just as much a mental game as it is a physical game.

What do you enjoy about working with student-athletes?

I enjoy working with student-athletes because I have a unique opportunity to assist them to excel in not only athletics but help them become a better student with structure and discipline.

What do you like about coaching at Norwich?

What I like about coaching at Norwich is that I can help create an environment to foster leadership not only on campus but beyond. As an alum here at Norwich, I have come full circle and fulfilled a lifelong dream to coach at my Alma mater — what could be better than that?

Why is Norwich a great place for student-athletes?

Being a student-athlete here at Norwich as a Division III school, you have the ability to be a multiple sport athlete. You also have the ability to pursue a military lifestyle or civilian lifestyle based on your goals and dreams. The major academic areas of study at Norwich allow for a top-notch education, all while being able to participate at a competitive collegiate level.

What is your approach to coaching?

My approach to coaching is that each athlete has an equal opportunity to show me as a coach that they are physically, emotionally, and mentally able to play. I feel that one-to-one contact with each player to check in and discuss their day is vital to create a family like bond. I support my players not only on the court but off the court in their pursuits in life. I am also a coach who can show my players that a little fun can be had in each practice, and it still be functional and productive.

What is Norwich’s approach to athletics, training, and being on a team?

Dedication to maintaining the student-athlete as a whole, physically, mentally and academically are pillars of Norwich athletics. Commitment and striving to be the most competitive collegiate athletes are instilled in each athlete by their coaches and athletic staff.