Dayton Juniors Welcomes New Board Members and Staff

Keri Kertesz, Associate Director

With almost a decade of experience shaping and developing successful programs, Coach Keri Kertesz is excited to transition into the role of Director. She will continue to be a resource this season as Associate Director and will officially take on her new role in the 27-28 season. Keri is our current 14 Blue Head Coach and is known for her strategic approach to team development and is dedicated to athlete development. Keri has a proven track record of fostering both on-court excellence and a positive team culture. Her deep understanding of fundamental skills, paired with a passion for building a sustainable and thriving program, will be an asset as she takes on this new role as Director. Keri is committed to expanding opportunities for athletes and elevating the overall standard of volleyball within Dayton Juniors.

Steve Leedy, Director of Volleyball Operations

Steve Leedy has been hired as our new Director of Volleyball Operations. This position ensures that our Dayton Juniors players get a quality experience when they join our club. Steve will see that each touchpoint of our club is improving. From player and coach development to administrative and facility responsibilities, this position will continue the tradition of excellence here at Dayton Juniors. 

Steve is our 17 Blue Head Coach and has been a long time member of the volleyball community. He first developed his passion for the sport as a High School Junior in 1994 and he has never looked back. Through his coaching career he has led teams to finishes at USAV Nationals and has dipped his toe in the college game as well. He acted as the Head Coach for the University of Dayton Men’s Club Volleyball team and also the Assistant Coach at Sinclair Community College. 

We are excited to have Steve’s leadership as he takes on this new role for
Dayton Juniors.

Abby Beneke, Board Member & Secretary

Abby will be starting her 10th season coaching at Dayton Juniors this year and is excited to bring her passion and leadership to the Board. As a former player of the club, Dayton Juniors has had a large impact on her life and she hopes to continue to make that same impact for young athletes. She currently head coaches our 15 Blue team as well as Junior High at Oakwood during the school season. She is eager to bring fresh ideas to her new role.

Nikisha Smith, Board Member

Nikisha Smith has coached at Dayton Juniors for several years and we now welcome her to the Board. She serves as a new faculty member and Program Director in the Teacher Education Department at Wright State University. Since 2021, she has been coaching volleyball and enjoys helping young athletes develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game. Nikisha is honored to joing the Dayton Juniors Board and is excited to support the club’s mission and future success.

Beth Cusack, Board Member

Elizabeth Cusack has more than 20 years of executive leadership with strengths in project management and building a strong, effective team culture. As a dedicated volleyball parent for the past 4 years and a former youth sports coach, she looks forward to helping Dayton Juniors continue to grow and succeed.

Paige Shouse, Intern

Paige is a Dayton Juniors alum turned coach and now our summer intern. She is currently enrolled at Wilmington College where she plays volleyball and studies Sport Management. Paige is an Assistant Coach on our 17 Blue team is excited to use this opportunity as a stepping stone in her volleyball career.