Corona del Mar coach Katey Thompson sits down with Sunset Rewind host Charlie Brande 2025 pre-season

The Corona del Mar Boys Volleyball Team is gearing up for the 2025 season, evaluating talent, and preparing for another competitive year. In addition to head coach Thompson, veteran assistant coach Sam Stafford returns, while Nick Hannemann joins the program, and JV coach Aubrey Caires will support both levels.

The conversation dives into key player development as the team looks for athletes who will step up with confidence. With the departure of volleyball phenom Sterling Foley—now at USC—there are big shoes to fill. A new wave of players, including Drake Foley, Daniel Booker, Brady Gant, and notable transfers Ben Brown (Chicago) and Jack Robinson (Mater Dei), are ready to make an impact.

Adding to the rich history, former Newport Harbor standout Katey shares memories from her undefeated run in the Battle of the Bay rivalry, highlighting legendary names like April Ross, Dan Glenn, and Weston Nielsen. As the 2025 season approaches, both schools prepare for the marquee Battle of the Bay showdown on March 12th, a game that will define the season.

The episode also spotlights the leadership of Brogan Glenn, a senior libero and UCLA commit, whose dedication sets the tone for the team. With new faces, experienced coaching, and a tradition of excellence, this season promises to be one to watch.

——  2:00 ——
Coach Sam Stafford is returning as assistant. One of the best in the business.

Coach Nick Hannemann is coming on this year (new)

Coach Aubrey Caires runs the JV team and also helps with varsity.

——  2:50 – ——
Jump serving vs. float serving
Looking for who gaines confidence and will rise up
A great group that’s willing to do what it takes. Looking forward to a good year.

——  3:15 ——
Sterling Foley’s 4-year tenure has ended (currently playing at USC). One of the most outstanding high school volleyball players of all time. Big shoes to fill, not just on his play, but his understanding of the game.

A handful of players mentioned in the podcast.

– Drake Foley
– Daniel Booker
– Brady Gant
– Ben Brown (transfer from Chicago)
– “AC” Aiden Cole
– Jack Robinson (transfer from Mater Dei)

——  6:00 – ——
Katey played four years at Newport Harbor and then UC Santa Barbara. Factoid, as a player “never lost a Battle of the Bay” –

Good storytelling of the Battle of Bay games and the era that Katey played. Lots of history in this podcast.

Fun names… Anne Yardley, Taylor Govaars, April Ross, Dan Glenn, Steve Conti, Weston Nielsen

——  10:00 ——
This year’s Battle of the Bay game is March 12th – Riggs Guys from Newport Harbor has also moved on (UC Santa Barbara) – so both schools are gearing up.

——  14:00 ——
A little bit about the Thompson family

——  19:50 ——
Leadership of Brogan Glenn (senior) (libero) – team captain – early to practice, sets the tone. UCLA commit.