Coaching Staff
“The mission of the Aptos High Volleyball program is to provide student-athletes with a complete, competitive extracurricular experience that promotes character building, demands problem-solving, and develops relationships for life."
Our coaches support this mission by working to create this environment day in and day out in our gym and on the road. We believe in the power of positivity, effort, and want our program to be a safe place that athletes look forward to being a part of.
Our graduating class of 2024, Varsity team, and their families
Varsity Head Coach - Hunter Zeng
Hunter is returning to Aptos for his fourth season with the girls' program. In his time as a Mariner volleyball coach, he has made efforts to build a program and a culture that stays true to the mission statement.
What are you looking forward to this season?
The freshmen from my first year at Aptos will be seniors this year. It's been a tremendous honor and privilege to work with each of them. Seeing them grow not just as athletes but as people, mentors, and models of the culture we are building is worth every ounce of my best effort.
How would you describe your coaching style?
My undergraduate degree is in user experience design. Coaching volleyball is about crafting an experience that brings out the best in my people. I blend my tech background with the best research-driven principles in our sport to provide our athletes with an intentionally crafted athletics experience. Beyond the x's and o's we want to send them into the world with character skills that will help them serve the communities they are a part of.
Favorite Quote
"A good manager doesn't fire people, he hires people, and inspires people. People will never go out of business."
-Michael Scott (The Office).
Favorite TV Show
Bob's Burgers!!! The earlier seasons are the best, with quirky artwork and hilarious situations. It strikes a chord with me as a beach town reminiscent of Santa Cruz.
Hobbies
Volleyball-related activities take up most of my time, in the very best way. Outside of coaching, playing beach, and geeking out on film, I enjoy surfing, cooking, and reading.
JV Head Coach - Maddie Arbuckle
This will be Maddie's third season coaching at Aptos! She's really looking forward to creating a positive environment and experience for all of the new and returning athletes.
What are you looking forward to this season?
I'm really looking forward to seeing how all three teams progress from the beginning to the end of the season. It's always a lot of fun to look back at where we started and see all that we've accomplished as a program.
How would you describe your coaching style?
I’d describe my coaching style in three words: positive, fun, and encouraging. I love connecting personally with each athlete on my team and in our program, creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves on and off the court.
Favorite Quote
"In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity"
-Albert Einstein.
Favorite TV Show
Anything reality TV - especially Bravo! I'm always watching one of the Real Housewives, Vanderpump Rules, Below Deck, or Love Island!
Hobbies
When I'm not coaching, I work for a travel tech company running their recruiting and HR department. Outside of work, you can find me listening to podcasts, going to country concerts, wine tasting, and planning trips with my college girlfriends!
Frosh Head Coach - Nicole Henry
This will be Nicole's first season coaching at Aptos! She is excited to create a safe space where the athletes can find joy in the sport and develop important life skills.
What are you looking forward to this season?
I’d have to say watching these young athletes grow. It's so much fun watching young players not only learn the sport, but figure out what skills come naturally to them and really hone in on them.
How would you describe your coaching style?
I would say… focused, culture driven, and fun. I always want to maintain an atmosphere that is first and foremost, fun and safe, but I want our athletes to gain value from being on a team and learning to work and compete together.
Favorite Quote
"All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us"
-Gandalf
Favorite TV Show
I love a good investigative docu series! But I've rewatched The Office at least 10 times.
Hobbies
When I'm not coaching or working you can find me in the sand playing volleyball at Main Beach. Outside of my volleyball related hobbies I'm avid hiker, reader, and puzzler. I'm full of book and hike recommendations!
