Volleyball Coach’s Corner

Kimberly Crawford

Kim Crawford begins her 24th season as the head volleyball coach at South Florida State College (SFSC). Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of coaching numerous talented student-athletes while helping develop outstanding young women both on and off the court. Under her leadership, the Panthers earned a FCSAA State Region 8 Division 2 Gulf District Runner-Up finish in 2020-2021, reflecting the growth and competitiveness of the program.

As a middle blocker at SFSC, Crawford recorded 901 kills and 597 total blocks. She still holds two program records: 552 kills in a single season and 25 blocks in a single match. In 1993, she became SFSC’s first—and still only—female All-American athlete. During her playing career, she helped lead the Panthers to Suncoast Conference Championships in 1991 and 1992 under the leadership of Coach Terry Quarles.

Crawford continued her collegiate career at Florida Southern College (FSC), where she earned First Team All-American honors twice and was named the Sunshine State Conference Player of the Year as a senior. Playing under Coach Lois Webb, she finished her career with 1,101 kills, 79 solo blocks, and 148 block assists. She graduated in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education: Recreation and was inducted into the Florida Southern College Hall of Fame in 2009.

Following college, Crawford played professionally in Europe from 1996 to 1998. She also competed on the Bud Light Professional Beach Tour as a member of Team Nike and on the Professional California Grass Tour.

Crawford has trained at the national level under Olympic coaches and alongside Olympic athletes, bringing a wealth of elite playing experience and technical expertise to every athlete she coaches.

Beyond her accomplishments as both a player and coach, Crawford has dedicated herself to growing the sport of volleyball throughout the community. She shares her passion and extensive knowledge of both indoor and beach volleyball by offering summer camps and clinics for athletes of all ages.

In 2012, she founded Xcel Volleyball Club to provide young athletes with opportunities to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and experience the value of teamwork and personal growth through volleyball.

As a distinguished athlete, accomplished coach, and dedicated mentor, Crawford has positively impacted the lives of countless student-athletes. Her commitment to excellence, leadership, and the development of young people continues to inspire athletes, coaches, and the community both on and off the court.