Lansing Sun

The hiring of Leah Johnson as the new head coach of the MSU Spartans women’s volleyball team was revealed in early February. Allan Haller, Michigan State University (MSU) vice president and director of athletics, made the announcement, according to a press release on the Spartans' website.

Program officials hope that by taking Johnson from Illinois State University (ISU)  – where she crafted the Redbirds into a winning team during the last half-decade – the Spartans will become a constant presence in the NCAA tournament once again.

"Leah brings a track record of success on the court and on the recruiting trail to Michigan State volleyball," Haller said in the release. "Her competitive nature and determined approach is evident in all areas of her program, especially the passion she has for her student-athletes and their success, both on and off the court."

Haller continued, "It's an approach that's led to conference championships, NCAA Tournament appearances, and individual honors for her student-athletes. Her drive will energize our fanbase, building on the proud tradition of Spartan volleyball. On behalf of the entire community, I'm excited to welcome Leah to our Spartan family."

As director of the ISU program, Johnson compiled a 104-53 record and helmed the Redbirds to four NCAA Tournaments plus another postseason appearance, the release said. The university also captured two Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) regular-season crowns and three tournament titles under Johnson.

The last time ISU experienced such a successful stretch was almost 40 years ago, according to the release.

Johnson’s final season at ISU saw her lead the conference’s youngest team to a 19-14 overall record, as well as several milestones and accolades.

The coach earned her 100th victory with the Redbirds, in addition to the 2021 AVCA North Region Coach of the Year award.

Four members of the Redbirds team, which was among the NCAA’s top 10 in total kills and assists, also took home honors for themselves, the release said.

Johnson coached three student-athletes who landed on the All-MVC First Team, including the conference’s Player of the Year, Tamara Otene, and Libero of the Year, Kaity Weimerskirch.

The hiring came more than a month after Cathy George announced her retirement. George led the Spartans for 17 seasons, according to the Lansing State Journal.