Jonah Karsten is a dynamic student-athlete and volleyball coach from MacEwan University. Jonah is in his fifth year as a business student and a member of the Griffins men's volleyball team. He has been playing competitive volleyball for eight years, including four years with MacEwan. His experience extends to winning a U17 national championship with FOG Volleyball Club in 2019. Beyond his playing career, Jonah is deeply involved in coaching, currently leading Spotlight Volleyball and working as an assistant coach for Park Elite U15 Blue.

Volleyball has been a central part of Jonah’s life, and in this episode, we explore his insights into both indoor and beach volleyball. Jonah describes the strategic and skill-based differences between the two formats, emphasizing that while indoor volleyball relies heavily on power and systematic play, beach volleyball allows for more creativity and improvisation. With only two players on the court in beach volleyball, Jonah highlights the importance of building strong chemistry with a partner, while in indoor volleyball, teamwork and communication are paramount to success.

As a coach and community builder in Sherwood Park, Jonah is committed to developing young talent and expanding the local volleyball community. His coaching philosophy revolves around fostering mental resilience, encouraging players to step out of their comfort zones, and guiding them toward becoming leaders. At Spotlight Volleyball, Jonah aims to provide a space where athletes not only improve their skills but also build character, make new connections, and develop the discipline necessary to succeed in both volleyball and life.

In this episode, Jonah also shares his strategies for finding joy in the present moment. As a busy student, coach, and athlete, he stresses the importance of mindfulness and breathing exercises to stay grounded and avoid unnecessary worries. Jonah believes that focusing on what can be done in the present moment, rather than dwelling on past mistakes or future uncertainties, is key to achieving peace of mind. He recently started journaling as a way to organize his thoughts and create a clear path forward.

Throughout the conversation, Jonah emphasizes the importance of staying present, not only for himself but for his players as well. During high-pressure moments in games, he encourages his athletes to focus on their teammates, maintain eye contact, and regroup after every point. By embracing struggle and maintaining a positive outlook, Jonah believes that players can overcome adversity and perform at their best, both on and off the court.

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