Our Staff – Florida Hype

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Home
About Us
Events
- Tryouts
- Mini Club
- Summer
Team Stores
Resources
- FAQ
Tournaments

Our Staff

Leo Grossman

Owner

Leo Grossman

Owner

A Tampa native and founding member of Florida HYPE Volleyball Club, Coach Leo brings over a decade of coaching experience along with a deep passion for youth development through sports. With more than 30 years of ice hockey experience, including serving as captain of the Durant High School team, Leo has dedicated much of his life to competitive athletics. For over 10 years, he has volunteered as head coach for a local youth hockey team in Brandon, FL, mentoring young athletes both on and off the ice. His love for sports extends to the volleyball court, where he plays in an adult league alongside his wife Amanda and supports his children’s athletic pursuits. Together, Leo and Amanda founded HYPE with a vision to create a volleyball club focused on developing strong character, leadership, and life skills. Leo’s leadership, commitment to community, and emphasis on positive values make him a cornerstone of HYPE’s mission to shape tomorrow’s leaders through sport.

Email:Leo.FLHYPEVBC@gmail.com

kayla witucki

Director

kayla witucki

Director

Coach Kayla, a Jacksonville native and proud graduate of the University of South Florida, brings a dynamic and well-rounded volleyball background to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. She earned her degrees in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology, blending her understanding of performance, mindset, and athlete development to create a thoughtful and intentional coaching approach. Kayla began playing volleyball at age 12, competing with top Jacksonville clubs and as a four-year varsity athlete, while also discovering her passion for coaching through volunteering with 10U teams during high school.

While at USF, Kayla continued her involvement in the sport as both a club player and an official, further developing her technical knowledge and leadership skills. Since 2020, she has coached athletes across the club and high school levels, working with both girls’ and boys’ programs and a wide range of age groups and experience levels.

Beyond coaching, Kayla plays a key role in the operational and developmental growth of Florida HYPE, helping to shape programming, establish standards, and lead long-term athlete development initiatives. Her coaching philosophy centers on building confident, accountable athletes who value teamwork, resilience, and continuous growth. She is deeply committed to developing not only skilled volleyball players, but strong, self-aware leaders prepared for success on and off the court.

Email:CoachKaylaW.FLHYPEVBC@gmail.com

ezra meador

Assistant Director

ezra meador

Assistant Director

Originally from Kentucky, Coach Ezra brings passion, energy, and a deeply personalized approach to his role at Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. Known for his high-energy coaching style, Ezra is committed to helping athletes discover confidence in themselves both on and off the court. He believes that every athlete is unique and deserves a coaching strategy that adapts to their individual strengths, learning styles, and goals. Ezra’s approach emphasizes building a positive and supportive environment where athletes feel empowered to take ownership of their growth while being part of a team that uplifts one another. His goal is to help each player unlock their full potential while fostering a genuine love for the sport that has shaped his own life. With a focus on accountability, encouragement, and adaptability, Coach Ezra is dedicated to guiding athletes not just as players, but as people. HYPE is excited to have his passion and perspective to the coaching staff.

Email:CoachEzra.FLHYPEVBC@gmail.com

marcus byrd

Assistant Director

marcus byrd

Assistant Director

Coach Marcus Byrd brings a unique and well-rounded perspective to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club through his extensive experience as both a collegiate-level official and a high school coach at Tampa Bay Technical High School. In addition to his work at the high school level, Marcus has spent over a decade coaching club volleyball, giving him a deep understanding of athlete development across all levels of the game.

Marcus is especially passionate about helping athletes take the next step in their volleyball journeys. For years, he has guided players through the recruiting process—helping them build connections with college programs and navigate conversations with confidence and purpose. Known for his kind heart and genuine investment in his athletes, Marcus is dedicated to helping each player pursue their goals and reach their full potential, both on and off the court.

Email:CoachByrd.FLHYPEVBC@gmail.com

jack becker

Coach

jack becker

Coach

Coach Jack discovered his passion for volleyball in 8th grade and quickly became immersed in the game, playing throughout high school and club seasons. During his playing career, he made multiple district and state tournament appearances with the Tampa Bay HEAT and continues to compete in adult leagues and open-level grass tournaments. While he has experience in every position, Jack has spent the most time as a setter, where his love for precision and court leadership shines. He especially enjoys coaching setting and blocking, two skills he believes demand the highest level of technical mastery. Jack brings that same focus and care to his coaching, striving to help each athlete sharpen their technique and elevate their game. One of his favorite aspects of coaching is being a consistent support system for players as they chase their goals. At HYPE, he’s excited to give back to the sport and help the next generation grow and thrive.

noah dieppa

Coach

noah dieppa

Coach

Coach Noah Dieppa brings a versatile playing background and a passion for mentorship to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. Having played nearly every position but specializing as a libero, Noah spent three years representing Team Florida and helped lead his high school team to multiple district and state championship tournament appearances. He focuses on defense and serve receive, emphasizing the high-effort, detail-oriented aspects of the game that often go unnoticed but make the biggest impact. His coaching journey began with i9 Sports, where he taught young athletes foundational skills and helped them build confidence and love for the game. Noah is driven by a desire to pour into his players as both athletes and individuals, helping them recognize and pursue the potential he sees in them. His coaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that “hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard,” and he values HYPE’s family-oriented culture that fosters growth, accountability, and excellence.

porshia garza

Coach

porshia garza

Coach

Coach Porshia brings elite-level playing experience and a deep love for the game to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. A standout athlete at Butler University, she made school history as the first player to earn all-conference honors in four consecutive seasons. Over her four-year career, she recorded 1,459 kills—ranking 5th all-time at Butler—and totaled 4,163 attacks, placing her 6th in school history. Porshia has played as a middle, outside, and right side hitter, giving her a well-rounded perspective and deep understanding of front-row play. Her coaching experience is just as impressive, and she continues to be a trusted and inspiring presence for her athletes. Known for her competitive drive and approachable style, she’s passionate about helping players sharpen their skills and grow in confidence. Off the court, Porshia enjoys spending time with her family and friends. We’re proud to have her back for another season, sharing her knowledge, experience, and love for the sport.

JORGE GARBEY

Coach

JORGE GARBEY

Coach

Coach Jorge is a distinguished international volleyball coach and former Olympian whose career spans over five decades at the highest levels of the sport. As a member of the Cuba men's national volleyball team, he represented Cuba in premier global competitions, including the 1980 Summer Olympics, multiple FIVB World Cups, World Championships, Pan-American Games, and World Universiade Games, earning numerous podium finishes throughout the 1970s and establishing himself among Cuba’s elite competitors.

Following his accomplished playing career, Coach Jorge became part of one of the most dominant dynasties in volleyball history. As an assistant coach with the Cuba women's national volleyball team, he helped lead the program to three consecutive Olympic Gold Medals at the 1992 Summer Olympics, 1996 Summer Olympics, and 2000 Summer Olympics. During this historic era, Cuba also captured multiple FIVB World Championship titles, World Cup victories, Grand Prix championships, and numerous NORCECA and Pan-American gold medals, solidifying its legacy as one of the greatest teams in international volleyball history.

Coach Jorge later served as Head Coach of the Dominican Republic women's national volleyball team, guiding the program to international success, including a Pan-American Games Gold Medal and multiple NORCECA Championship medals. With Olympic gold medals as both a player and coach, he brings unparalleled experience, championship culture, and global perspective to every program he serves, emphasizing discipline, technical excellence, and the development of athletes prepared to compete at the highest level.

joey hughes

Coach

joey hughes

Coach

Coach Joey is a dedicated college student and volleyball enthusiast. With a strong foundation in the sport developed through years of training and competition at elite youth and scholastic levels, he brings a passion for teamwork, continuous improvement, and the strategic elements of volleyball to every environment he’s part of. Known for his strong work ethic and commitment to the game, he continues to stay engaged in the local volleyball community and remains committed to personal growth, team culture, and leadership both inside and outside the gym.

sasha mcglothin

Senior Coach

sasha mcglothin

Senior Coach

Coach Sasha McGlothin brings a high-level collegiate playing background and a strong presence at the net to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. A former middle blocker at Middle Tennessee State University volleyball, Sasha was known for her efficiency and impact in both offensive and defensive systems. She finished her collegiate career ranked among the program’s top performers in blocks per set, showcasing her ability to control the game at the net and contribute consistently on both sides of the ball.

Sasha’s experience as a middle blocker shapes her coaching style, with an emphasis on timing, footwork, and reading the game at a high level. She is passionate about helping athletes understand the details that elevate performance, especially in front-row play and defensive systems. With a focus on discipline, confidence, and technical growth, Sasha is committed to developing athletes who compete with purpose and continue to grow within HYPE’s culture of accountability and excellence.

Danielle Petty

Coach

Danielle Petty

Coach

Coach Dani brings over five years of dedicated coaching experience and a strong commitment to developing athletes in both skill and character. Known for her ability to motivate and uplift her players, Dani emphasizes teamwork, mental toughness, and growth both on and off the court. She focuses on building a strong foundation of fundamentals while encouraging a high-energy, goal-driven atmosphere. In addition to her coaching expertise, Dani specializes in athletic performance, offering agility, jump training, and fitness programs tailored to volleyball. Her balanced approach helps athletes improve mobility, endurance, and explosive power, making her a valuable asset to their overall development. Dani’s coaching philosophy centers around creating a positive, disciplined, and encouraging team culture where athletes are inspired to push past limits and support one another. At HYPE, she continues to help shape confident, capable players ready to compete at the next level.

OLIVIA POMEROY

Coach

OLIVIA POMEROY

Coach

Coach Olivia, originally from New York and now a proud Brandon, FL resident, has been immersed in volleyball for most of her life. She began playing at age 8 and quickly developed a love for the sport that grew stronger through her youth and high school years. At Brandon High School, Olivia served as varsity captain for four consecutive seasons, earning a reputation for her leadership, work ethic, and competitive spirit. After graduation, she transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant for the same varsity program and later becoming the head coach. Olivia is known for creating an environment where players feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow. Her approach emphasizes not only skill development but also confidence, resilience, and character. At HYPE Volleyball Club, Olivia brings her deep understanding of the game and her commitment to youth mentorship, striving to help every athlete reach their potential and find joy in the sport she loves.

Jelani Richards

Senior Coach

Jelani Richards

Senior Coach

Originally from St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Coach Jelani brings a rich athletic background and infectious energy to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. While baseball was his first love, volleyball took center stage at age 14, quickly becoming his lifelong passion. By his sophomore year, Jelani earned a spot on the Junior Men’s National Team, representing the Virgin Islands in international tournaments, including a pivotal trip to Jamaica that solidified his dedication to the sport. In high school, he led his team to multiple undefeated seasons and earned MVP honors playing for the national team, coached by his father. Jelani attended the University of the Virgin Islands on a volleyball scholarship and continued to compete in beach Olympic qualifiers and international club competitions after moving to Tampa in 2003. Since 2015, he has coached at the club and high school levels, including roles at Tampa Christian Academy, Tampa Bay Tech, and HYPE. Jelani’s experience and passion make him a powerful mentor for young athletes.

montana wessel

Coach

montana wessel

Coach

Coach Montana began her volleyball journey at the age of 12 and has been passionate about the sport ever since. She played competitively throughout middle and high school for the Tampa Bay HEAT, where she developed her skills and love for the game. Montana also spent five years playing club volleyball with the Tampa Bay Raptors and Florida HYPE, gaining valuable experience and growth as both a player and individual. Her time at HYPE left a lasting impact—not just because of the training, but because of the supportive environment, strong coaching, and the club’s focus on developing character. Montana credits HYPE with helping her become a more confident, empowered, and compassionate person. Now stepping into a coaching role, she returns to give back to the program that shaped her. Her goal is to help young athletes grow in their confidence, build strong values, and find the same joy in volleyball that she did. Montana leads with kindness, purpose, and a deep belief in the power of sports to shape lives.

daija wilson

Coach

daija wilson

Coach

Coach Daija Wilson brings a competitive playing background and a genuine passion for athlete development to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. A standout at East Bay High School, she continued her career at Hillsborough Community College, where she further developed her skills and understanding of the game at the collegiate level. Daija remains actively involved in the sport, continuing to compete in both indoor and grass volleyball competitions.

Daija enjoys coaching because of the opportunity to help athletes recognize and reach their full potential. She is committed to creating a positive, growth-focused environment where players are challenged, supported, and encouraged to build confidence in themselves both on and off the court. Her approach emphasizes consistent effort, skill development, and a love for the game, aligning with HYPE’s mission to develop well-rounded athletes and individuals.

SHIKINA WRIGHT

"Chi Chi" Byrd Senior Coach

SHIKINA WRIGHT

"Chi Chi" Byrd Senior Coach

Coach Shikina Wright brings a strong background in education and years of coaching experience to Florida HYPE Volleyball Club. As a dedicated teacher, she understands how to connect with athletes at every stage of development, having worked with players ranging from elementary school through high school. Her ability to meet athletes where they are while guiding their growth makes her an impactful presence both on and off the court.

Shikina is passionate about building a strong foundation in young athletes, emphasizing structure, accountability, and discipline alongside fundamental volleyball skills. She believes that developing these habits early sets athletes up for long-term success, not only in the sport but in all areas of life. Her coaching style creates an environment where players are expected to give consistent effort, take ownership of their growth, and build confidence through hard work—aligning with HYPE’s commitment to developing disciplined, well-rounded athletes.

Contact Us

813-852-5824

hypevolleyballclub@gmail.com

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