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Jenna Ness became Loras’ 12^th head coach in program history in May of 2013.

Ness is set to complete her master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from St. Ambrose this month and earned her undergraduate degree in Business Management and Exercise Science from Luther College in January of 2011. Her most recent volleyball coaching positions have been with St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota, St. Ambrose University in Davenport, and her alma mater Luther College.

While with the Norse, she progressed from player to student assistant and worked her way into an assistant’s role. She then moved to St. Ambrose, where she was a graduate assistant with the women’s teams and contributed to the men’s team for the Bees. She also taught Wellness Concepts courses at St. Ambrose. Most recently, she spent a season with St. Mary’s University in Minnesota where she was the top assistant, recruiter, contributed to the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, and served as Intramural Director.

“I am extremely excited about becoming a Duhawk,” Ness proclaimed on Tuesday.

“After meeting with administration, the players, and members of the athletic department staff, I knew Loras College was the perfect fit for me.  Seeing the potential that the Duhawk volleyball program has, I am excited to continue to build on and further enhance the tradition of excellence here at Loras College.” 

“Jenna is also clearly in support of what it means to be a NCAA Division III athlete and coach and is fully in line with what we stand for in terms of the mission of our College. I believe we’ll have a smooth transition into the 2013 season,” Director of Athletics Bob Quinn said in the press release announcing Ness' hiring. 

Ashley (Rogers) Winter completed her fifth season with Loras in 2011. A graduate of Wahlert High School and Wartburg College, Winter is now a member of the coaching staff with the Duhawks after completing her degree in Business Administration (Marketing).

During her playing career with the Knights, Winter was a first team All-Iowa Conference selection each season from her middle hitter position. During her final season Winter was the league MVP and a first team All-American. Her coaching experiences include numerous camps as well as youth teams. In early July, Winter was named the Iowa Conference’s nominee for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award. Winter is also the head coach of the Loras softball team beginning with the 2010 season.

“The Loras volleyball program stresses the importance of working hard, having fun and building relationships that will last far beyond the volleyball court. The commitment to excellence and teamwork has resulted in two Iowa Conference Championships in the past five seasons.  It is very rewarding to work with such talented student-athletes with a passion for the game of volleyball.”

Winter was recently married in November to Bud Winter.

Jeff completed his fifth year as Loras' volunteer coach. He works full time as a business consultant at Cottingham & Butler in Dubuque. Jeff graduated from University of Northern Iowa in 1982 and earned his MBA from the University of Iowa in 1990. He has a 14 year old daughter Allison.

Regarding the volleyball program, Jeff adds, "Loras volleyball is definitely on the rise. We've seen each of our players increase their skill level and, more importantly, their focus and desire. We strive to make a positive impact on each player's college experience and create a terrific team atmosphere. I expect the progress we have made in the past two years to continue because of our attempt to provide each player the opportunity to rise to the level they choose to work towards and achieve."