JOSH KREUNEN

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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How many seasons have you been with The Diff/Arete?

Since 2017

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What inspired you to join The Diff/Arete?

Having coached against the Diff for 6 years, I really respected and appreciated their approach to the game. I was always impressed by how the coaches and players all conducted themselves in matches and tournaments and knew that it was a club that I would be proud to be a part of. 

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How has The Diff/Arete made a difference in your life?

The Diff has connected me with some fantastic people in the staff, coaches and players. These positive, hard working people and the teamwork have made me a better person and better coach. 

 

What motivates you to achieve excellence?

For a long time it was just to prove other people wrong, the people who said I couldn’t do it. Now it’s more of the drive to be the best I possibly can and the amazing feeling of accomplishment knowing what it takes to chase excellence. 

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What are your other passions besides volleyball?

Being outside! I grew up in LA where we were outside all the time. Colorado might be the perfect location to enjoy the outdoors. Other than sand volleyball, I enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, golfing, camping, and skiing. My other “passions” are my four legged kids. They go any and everywhere with me. 

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COACHING

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What are your super powers as a coach?

Improving players mental capabilities, instilling and building confidence, and scouting opponents’ weaknesses. 

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Years of coaching experience:

I started coaching club while I was in college, so as of 2022, I have coached for 25 years.

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Coaching achievements: 

• High School GSHL Coach of the Year - 2009, 2010, 2011

• High School Post-seasons: 2003 - 2006, 2008 - 2013; ranked in the top 10 in 2008, 2013

• Club - Won Pacific Northwest Qualifier 2015

• Club - Qualified for Nationals at ZBT 2022

• College - Post-season appearances: Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament Appearances: 2014 - 2016; Division II NCAA Tournament Appearances 2014 - 2016

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PLAYING

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What are your super powers as a player/athlete?

Quickness, jumping ability, competitive, defensive ninja, over-thinker, and mind reader

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List your playing achievements 

• Competed at USAV Adult Nationals in 2005, 2007, 2011, 2014, and 2018

• Played as a setter and defensive specialist (before the days of liberos) at the University of California, Santa Barbara; Team ranked top 10 nationally (1999)

• Defensive Specialist, Setter at Mt San Antonio Jr College;  2nd Team All-League Defensive Specialist

• All-Region Jr Club Setter (Columbia Empire Region); Competed at USAV Jr Boys Nationals (1993)

 

Tell us about a coach, educator, mentor, or role model that made a difference in your life:

My mentor coach taught me almost everything I know about coaching. One of the biggest things he taught me was how to continue to learn and adapt especially in the ever changing game of volleyball. He also taught me how to bring passion into practices, games and in coaching and he taught me how to build successful teams and programs. The biggest thing I learned from him was the ability to use volleyball as a tool to build confident, team-playing, competitive, purpose-beyond-themselves leaders.

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