Lebanon Athletics is proud to announce that Victoria Downs has been selected as the next head varsity volleyball coach, pending board of education approval. A 2014 Lebanon High School graduate, Coach Downs (Collins) returns home with a proven record of volleyball success, a strong coaching pedigree, and a deep understanding of the Lebanon volleyball community. She succeeds Coach Steve Long, who stepped down following his daughter's senior season after helping guide the Lady Warriors to their first district championship since 2007 this fall.

"At this point in the program's history, we're seeking stability and a leader who truly embraces the Lebanon volleyball community," shared Athletic Director Keith Pantling. "Victoria is the perfect fit, an ambitious competitor with exceptional volleyball acumen and a passion for mentoring young women on and off the court. I want to acknowledge the committee of stakeholders for their time, effort, and valuable contributions to this process."

A standout student-athlete during her time at LHS, Victoria competed for the Warriors from 2010–2013 and built an impressive playing résumé. She was a two-time District 15 Player of the Year, a two-time First Team All-Conference selection, and earned All-State Honorable Mention honors in 2013.

Following high school, Victoria continued her career at the University of West Alabama before medically retiring in 2016. She later earned her degree from Miami University in 2019 and began her coaching career in 2016. Most recently, she has been an integral part of the staff at Springboro and a coach with the prestigious Elevation Volleyball Club based out of Mason, Ohio. 

"I'm honored to return to Lebanon as the varsity volleyball coach and lead the program that helped shape me as a young athlete. As a lifelong resident and former varsity player, it's incredibly meaningful to step into this full-circle moment. My vision is to build a disciplined and unified culture that rallies our community and ensures our opponents understand exactly what it means to Fear the Spear."

Coach Downs comes from a deeply rooted coaching family and entered the profession immediately after her playing career, quickly finding success. Her mother, Tina Collins, is the head coach at Loveland; her sister, Alyssa (Collins) Gerrein, leads the program at CHCA; and her wife, Alyssa Downs, serves as the head coach at Springboro. Her coaching philosophy has been shaped through experiences working under several well-respected veteran coaches, including Jon Miller, Kathy Kennedy, and Lisa Schaad, a 1991 LHS graduate and 2014 Lebanon Hall of Fame inductee.

Victoria resides in Lebanon with her wife, Alyssa. 

A meeting time for returning and prospective varsity players will be announced soon, followed by a program-wide meeting for prospective players and parents across all grade levels.

The Lady Warriors will open the 2026 season at LHS on Saturday, August 22, against Springboro.

Testimonials

"As a varsity parent, I'm thrilled about Vic stepping in as our new head volleyball coach. She brings outstanding knowledge, high-level experience, and the passion of a true Lebanon Warrior alum. I can't wait to see the energy and vision she brings as she works to build a strong, lasting volleyball program for our athletes and community."

— Parent of current student-athlete

"I couldn't be more excited. Coach Vic brings exceptional energy, strong volleyball knowledge, and the kind of leadership that inspires athletes on and off the court. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her vision is exactly what this program needs to take it to the next level. I'm confident she will have an immediate and lasting positive impact on Lebanon volleyball and in our community."

— Former LHS player, coach, and parent of current student-athlete

"As a program coordinator and youth coach, I'm excited for the future of Lebanon Volleyball. Vic has a vision that will build a solid foundation starting with the youth program. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and knowledge of the game stem from her deep family roots. I'm confident Vic will position our student-athletes well in the ECC."

— Former player, parent, and youth program coach

"I am delighted to see Victoria accept the position of Head Varsity Coach at Lebanon High School. Her four years of experience playing at Lebanon High School will undoubtedly allow her to prioritize the best interests of the entire program. I am excited to see how she will lead Lebanon and establish a bright future for the Warriors. I am looking forward to a competitive match between the Warriors and Tigers."

— Tina Collins, Varsity Volleyball Coach at Loveland / Mother