Maȟpíya Lúta High School is proud to welcome alumni Cherella Drapeaux as its new head volleyball coach for the upcoming season. Bringing energy, dedication, and a strong connection to the school community, Coach Drapeaux is ready to guide the team both on and off the court.
“As the new head coach, I’m approaching this first season with openness and a focus on building relationships,” Coach Drapeaux shared. “For me, it’s important to get to know each player as a person first, not just as an athlete. I want to create an environment where we trust one another, support each other, and grow together both on and off the court.”
Her goals extend beyond developing volleyball skills. “On the court, I want us to grow in our volleyball skills, communication, and confidence as a team. Off the court, my biggest goal is to build kinship where we are supporting one another not just as teammates, but as a family. If we can walk away from the season knowing we lifted each other up and built lasting connections, that’s a success,” she explained.
Coach Drapeaux was drawn back to Maȟpíya Lúta because of her personal connection as an alum. “Volleyball is a sport that teaches discipline, teamwork, and resilience, and I hope to help players strengthen those skills while also creating new friendships and memories,” she said.
Outside of coaching, she enjoys learning the Lakota language and spending time outdoors hiking. “Both help me feel connected to who I am and to our culture, and I bring that same sense of connection into coaching,” Coach Drapeaux added.
Maȟpíya Lúta students, families, and fans are looking forward to an exciting season as the volleyball team grows under the leadership of one of their own.