Jensen resigns from head volleyball coach, teaching position

By FAITH MOLDAN / Bigfork Eagle

First-year Valkyrie volleyball coach Kelsey Jensen resigned from her coaching and teaching positions early last week. She leaves Bigfork High School at the end of the school year.

A 2005 Montana Tech grad, Jensen said the decision to resign was a very hard one

"A job opportunity presented itself," Jensen, a math teacher, said of the reason for her departure. "The job is far enough away that wouldn't be conducive to keep coaching. It wouldn't be fair to the girls."

It wasn't just the girls on her team that left an impression on Jensen.

"I want to say thank you to all the players, parents and BHS staff for their support," she said.

Jensen, a 2001 graduate of Whitefish High School, coached the Vals to a 5-5 Northwestern A conference record and a 2-2 divisional showing during the 2007 season. The Vals finished the season third in the conference.

"I fell in love with it (coaching) this year," Jensen said. "It was awesome. I loved it."

BHS Activities Director Shannon Smith said Jensen's love of the game was present all season long.

"She has an infectious passion and excitement for it," he said. "I noticed that the first day I met her and it held true all year."

Jensen said she hoped to coach again in the future. Smith said wherever she coaches will be lucky to have her. BHS will begin the search for a new varsity volleyball coach immediately.

"She did an outstanding job," Smith said. "She did everything we asked of her and more."