Courtesy of Midland Athletics
FREMONT, Neb. — Midland University head volleyball coach Micah Rhodes has announced the hiring of Sophie Johnson as the program’s new assistant volleyball coach.
Johnson joins the Warriors following a decorated collegiate playing career across multiple levels, most recently at Oral Roberts University. In 2025, she appeared in 22 matches, totaling 264 assists, 175 digs, and eight service aces. She also spent time at South Dakota State University, where she was part of a Summit League championship team that advanced to the NCAA Tournament, as well as Dordt University and Southwest Minnesota State University.
“We are thrilled to have Sophie join the program in a full-time capacity,” said Rhodes. “After our introductory conversation, it was evident that we complement each other well and that she would be a perfect fit. Her experience as a collegiate athlete across multiple levels will be a tremendous asset to our team and recruiting efforts as we continue to compete on a national scale.”
A versatile player during her career, Johnson brings experience as both a setter and a defensive specialist. Rhodes noted her ability to elevate Midland’s ball control, including setting, defense, and serve receive.
Johnson’s coaching background includes serving as a volleyball coach with Southwest MN Volleyball, where she led training sessions, designed practice plans, and emphasized skill development and team culture. She has also worked as a gymnastics coach at Redhawk Gymnastics, gaining extensive experience teaching and mentoring young athletes.
“Sophie has the ability to take our setting, defense, and serve receive to an elite level,” Rhodes added. “Most importantly, she is an exemplary person who carries herself with integrity and authenticity. I am confident she will build strong relationships with our players and recruits.”
Johnson graduated summa cum laude from Southwest Minnesota State with a bachelor’s degree in business management and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sport management at Oral Roberts, where she holds a 4.0 GPA.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to be named the Assistant Volleyball Coach at Midland University,” Johnson said. “Midland Volleyball has such a strong tradition of success, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to begin my coaching career here. I’m looking forward to working alongside Micah and helping elevate the program while investing in the development of our student-athletes both on and off the court.”
