ELLENSBURG, Wash. – Central Washington University Head Volleyball Coach Lauren Herseth is proud to announce that former Wildcat libero Hannah Stires is joining the CWU Volleyball Staff for the 2026 season.
 
"Hannah is a proven leader with a tremendous amount of knowledge for the game," Herseth said. "Her love for CWU Volleyball is unmatched, and it's evident how much she wants this program to succeed. I admire what Hannah brings to the table, she is a go-getter, and I feel so blessed she's back in Ellensburg."

Stires finished her playing career as one of the most accomplished defensive players in CWU history, leaving behind a legacy built on consistency, leadership, and record-setting production.
 
In her time as a Wildcat, Stires totaled nearly 2,000 digs, leading the Wildcats in digs in five consecutive seasons and ranking among the GNAC's all-time defensive standouts. She averaged more than 4.9 digs per set for her career, including four seasons above 4.5 digs per set, and recorded eight matches with 30 or more digs. In her final season alone, she posted 464 digs (5.66 per set) with a .934 serve-receive percentage, helping guide the Wildcats to their first GNAC championship since 2005.
 
Stires' resume includes two GNAC Defensive Player of the Year awards (2021, 2024), four GNAC All-Conference First Team selections, and multiple national honors, including AVCA All-West Region First Team, D2CCA All-Region, and AVCA All-American Honorable Mentions. She was also a key contributor beyond the back row, finishing her career with over 400 assists and more than 100 service aces, underscoring her all-around impact.
 
In addition to her on-court milestones, Stires earned multiple GNAC All-Academic and CSC Academic All-District honors, reflecting her commitment to excellence both athletically and academically.
 
As she joins the CWU coaching staff, Stires brings championship experience, institutional knowledge, and a player's perspective shaped by years of elite performance. Her transition from libero to coach ensures that her influence on the Wildcats' culture and defensive identity will continue into the next era of CWU volleyball.