Nelson to coach Glacier volleyball

Jaimie Nelson, who has guided Glacier’s freshman volleyball teams the past two seasons, has been elevated to head coach for the Wolfpack program.

The hiring was approved Tuesday by Kalispell’s Board of Trustees at its regular board meeting. Nelson replaces Christy Harkins, who stepped down from her second stint coaching the team after two seasons. 

Nelson has long been involved in volleyball, working with Montana Northwest Volleyball Club including as head coach of the 14U Elite team.  

“I'm genuinely thrilled to take on the role of Head Volleyball Coach for Glacier High School," Nelson said in a release from the school district. "This program and the players have found a way to my heart and I look forward to building a resilient, hard working and supportive team with them. I have been humbled by the encouragement and support I've received while pursuing this role and I'm ready to get to work." 

“We are excited to have Jamie leading the Wolfpack volleyball program," Glacier activities director Mark Dennehy said in he release. "She has worked diligently in a variety of capacities, understands the culture of GHS and has a clear direction for the program. Jamie is always well prepared and willing to do the little things that are so important to the overall success of a program." 

Glacier made the State AA tournament the past two seasons, though the 2024 team went 11-18 — a record you can blame a lot on the Eastern AA’s dominance. Eastern teams went 1-2-3-4 at State, and the Western AA was just 3-24 in crossover matches last season including an 0-6 mark at the state tournament. 

In 2023 Glacier went 21-9 under Harkins, who came out of retirement after one season to lead the program. When she stepped down after the 2021 season, she was the only volleyball coach the Wolfpack had known; Glacier opened its doors in 2007. She retires again with a 253-186 mark with the Pack.