ALBANY, Georgia -- The Albany State University (ASU) Athletics Department has announced the appointment of Verniece Graham as new head volleyball coach for the Golden Rams. Graham assumes the role after Robert Skinner stepped down from the position. During his tenure, Coach Skinner guided the Golden Rams to ten SIAC Championships and eight NCAA Division II playoff berths. He also spent five seasons as the head coach at Paine College compiling a combined overall career record of 449-298.
"I have had a wonderful run as volleyball coach here at Albany State," says Skinner who has been at the helm of the program since 1991. "I'm looking forward to giving my full attention to women's basketball and am excited for what's to come for volleyball under the guidance of Coach Graham."
"It is an honor to work with a man of such great passion and commitment to this community, institution, program and the development of young women. I am grateful for his leadership and immeasurable impact to the Department of Athletics," stated ASU Athletics Director Sherie Gordon. "We look forward to Coach Skinner continuing his success leading the women's basketball program."
Verniece Graham takes over the program after serving as the assistant head coach since the fall of 2008. During her tenure Graham helped guide the team to two straight SIAC Championships (2008, 2009). In addition to her coaching duties, she played an integral role in day-to-day operations of the program including budgeting, recruiting and scheduling.
"We are excited to see Verniece lead the volleyball program. I am confident in her ability to sustain and grow the program and uphold a strong commitment to the academic and social development of our volleyball student-athletes," said Gordon.
Graham is no stranger to the athletics program at ASU. She had a standout career during her time a dual-sport in volleyball and softball for the Golden Rams. Graham was twice named to the All-SIAC Second Team in volleyball and as a libero/outside hitter helped bring three SIAC Championships to Albany State (2005,2006,2007). As a center fielder for the softball team, Graham was a First Team All-SIAC performer and was a part of the 2005 SIAC Championship team.
She was recognized with several awards during her playing days including softball and volleyball MVP (twice), offensive MVP for both sports and was a two time honoree as the Female Athlete of the Year.
Graham also served as an assistant for the softball team and would later earn SIAC Championships in 2009 and 2013.
A 2017 graduate of the NCAA Women Coaches Academy, Graham obtained her bachelor's degree in Health Physical Education and Recreation from Albany State in 2008, and is currently pursuing her master's degree in Coaching/NCAA Compliance.
A native of LaBelle, Florida she is the mother of sons Chayse and Chandlyr.
ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA COMMUNICATION
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