Daytona, Fl. Congratulations to our very own DME Volleyball Varsity Players Juanita Hernandez and Mariana Castano! The talented duo has been called up to represent their home state of Antioquia in the upcoming national matches. The pair will depart on November 16, with matches scheduled to run from November 17-20.
A Prestigious Honor for Our Athletes
Juanita and Mariana have shown exceptional skill and commitment since joining DME this past August. Both players secured their spots on the national team prior to their arrival on campus, a testament to their dedication and hard work highlights the level of talent they bring to the court.
Head Coach Craig Legginer shared his thoughts on their achievement:
“Juanita and Mariana have earned this incredible opportunity through their relentless effort and passion for the game. We’re proud to see them represent their home country on a national stage and look forward to watching them shine.”
The Journey Ahead
As members of the class of 2026, both Hernandez and Castano have a bright future ahead of them at DME Academy and beyond. This international experience will be invaluable as they continue to develop their skills and showcase their talents on bigger stages.
Stay Tuned for Updates!
DME Academy will be following their journey closely, so stay tuned for updates on how you can watch and support our young stars. We’re confident they will represent both Antioquia and DME with pride!
Interested in taking your volleyball game further?
Click here to learn how DME Academy can help you sharpen your skills and reach your full potential.
Now in our third year as a full-time volleyball academy program, DME Academy continues to grow, attract top talent, and make waves in Florida’s competitive high school sports landscape. With student-athletes from diverse regions such as Switzerland, Brazil, Colombia, and various states across the U.S., our program embodies a unique, international dynamic that sets us apart.
Despite a season affected by hurricanes and unexpected event cancellations, resulting in nine lost matches, our team stands strong with a current 7-7 record. A highlight of the season includes our 3rd place finish at the prestigious JJVA Breast Cancer Awareness Tournament, where our athlete Juanita Hernandez earned a well-deserved spot on the “All-tournament team”. This achievement underscores the resilience and talent within our program.
We’ve competed against some of the top teams in the state, proving that our girls can hold their own against the very best. Our matchups include Middleburg, the defending 5A State Champions and currently ranked #24 in Florida, and Bishop Kenny, last year’s State 4A Final Four team, ranked #27. In an incredibly close match against Academy of Central Florida, we narrowly lost 15-13 in the deciding set. We’ve also gone head-to-head with The Rock, ranked #22 in Florida, who are defending NCAC National Champions, and battled tough opponents like St. John’s Lutheran and Hagerty, both ranked in Florida’s top 50.
At present, we are ranked #133 in the state of Florida, a reflection of the potential and growth of our program. Our competitive spirit and determination to excel are what drive us.
Our volleyball program has evolved from its roots in a renowned volleyball club to a full-time high school program dedicated to developing student-athletes at the highest level. With a solid foundation, we’ve built a program that nurtures both athletic and academic growth, providing our players with the tools they need to succeed on and off the court.
As we approach the end of the high school season and transition into club season, DME Academy offers a holistic, year-round approach that allows our female student-athletes to compete at an elite level throughout the entire calendar year. This comprehensive structure, combining high school and club competition, ensures that our athletes are constantly improving while preparing academically for future success.
To learn more about our Volleyball program visit our website or a schedule a call with one of our student advisors here!
Daytona Beach, FL – DME Academy, renowned for its commitment to nurturing top-tier talent across multiple sports, is excited to announce the launch of our new DME Academy Beach Volleyball Team. This initiative aims to set a new standard for athletic excellence and competition in the region.
Our mission at DME is to help student-athletes achieve their personal best, and we are thrilled to be bringing this new program to DME Academy.
Unparalleled Coaching and Experience
Leading our Beach Volleyball program is Head Coach Craig Lenniger, who, alongside his team of world-class coaches, brings over 30 years of experience to the table. Our coaches are not just mentors; they are seasoned professionals dedicated to developing each player’s potential and fostering a strong team spirit.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Our facilities meet FIVB international standards, providing an elite training environment for our athletes. With year-round training and competition schedules, our program ensures that players are always at their best. Our elite facilities provide the perfect setting for our athletes to excel.
Elite Methodology and National Schedule
DME Academy’s holistic approach to athlete development combines rigorous training, strategic competition schedules, and a focus on both physical and mental conditioning. Competing nationally, our athletes will gain invaluable experience against top-tier talent. The national schedule ensures our players face the best competition, helping them develop their skills and compete at the highest levels.
Join Us
We are excited to offer this program and look forward to developing a top-tier Beach Volleyball team that competes at the highest levels. For more information about our Beach Volleyball program and to register, please visit our website or contact our admissions team.
This season, the DME 18-1 Volleyball team is serving up success both on and off the court! A remarkable 10 out of 12 graduating players have committed to playing volleyball at the collegiate level. This achievement is a testament to the combined efforts of the coaching staff, who develop each player’s talent, and the dedication of these young ladies.
We’re also thrilled to announce that two seniors from the 17-1 club team have secured college volleyball commitments as well. The entire DME community is bursting with pride to see all of these talented athletes reach their dreams of playing collegiate volleyball.
Congratulations to the following DME 18-1 & 17-1 players on their college commitments!
DME Volleyball offers a comprehensive Club Volleyball program for athletes of all skill levels. If you’re looking to develop your volleyball skills then DME could be the perfect fit for you. Learn more about our volleyball program here.
In a historic moment for DME Academy, the high school volleyball team played their very first match in program history, marking the beginning of an exciting journey. The team traveled to Jacksonville, Florida to compete in the River City Classic tournament from September 15-16, where they finished 2nd overall.
The team’s debut performance at the River City Classic was nothing short of spectacular. Comprised of 11 exceptionally talented young women hailing from diverse corners of the globe, this newly formed squad exceeded all expectations by securing a resounding victory in their very first match. This triumph not only set the tone for the tournament but also marked the beginning of a promising future.
Throughout the competition, the team demonstrated their resilience and indomitable spirit, competing in a total of four matches. Notable victories included a commanding 2-0 win against University Christian High School and a thrilling 2-1 triumph over Dixie High School in the semi-finals. The latter victory was particularly remarkable as it was against the top team from the other pool, showcasing the team’s remarkable teamwork and unwavering tenacity.
Ainhoa Garcia Sanchez, a 5’5″ outside hitter from Madrid, Spain, and Gabriela Carvalho, a 6’0″ opposite hitter from Ituiutaba, Brazil, were honored for their outstanding performances and were named to the all-aournament team.
Craig Lenniger, DME Academy’s Director of Volleyball, expressed his immense pride in the team’s achievements, saying, “I am incredibly proud of these young women and how hard they played this weekend. While they made mistakes young teams make, they never hung their heads and they never quit.
DME volleyball’s impressive debut has set the stage for a program poised to become a dominant force in the realm of high school volleyball. With the Pink Blast Girls Volleyball Tournament at DME Academy scheduled for October 6-7, the team is eager to build upon their success and continue their journey of growth and excellence.
To learn more about DME’s elite volleyball program, click here.
DME Academy is thrilled to announce its action-packed Fall Beach Volleyball events taking place at its state-of-the-art facilities in sunny Daytona Beach, Florida. Led by the passionate and experienced Director of DME Beach Volleyball, Craig Lenniger, these events promise a thrilling blend of skill development, friendly competition, and pure fun in the sand.
Fall Beach Volleyball Club Program
This comprehensive program, running from September 6 to November 19, caters to athletes aspiring to play Beach Volleyball at the high school or college level. Held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6-8 PM, and Sundays from 1-3 PM, this program offers intensive training sessions designed to enhance the skills of players. Athletes with a solid volleyball foundation will have the opportunity to participate in regional tournaments and attend college beach showcases, boosting their chances of catching the eye of college coaches.
Friday Night Lights
For the 12-16 year old enthusiasts, the Friday Night Lights program offers an opportunity to keep their skills sharp while having a blast. Taking place every Friday evening from 6-7:30 PM from September 8 to October 27, this program combines quick beach volleyball development with plenty of gameplay. It’s the ideal choice for those not yet ready for the Club Program but still eager to hone their skills and enjoy some competitive action.
Friday Night Open Play
DME Academy invites everyone to join the Friday Night Open Play sessions from September 8 to November 17, every Friday night from 7:30-9 PM. This free-play event allows enthusiasts of all skill levels to have a great time on the pristine sand courts. With the guidance of Coach Craig and other experienced beach coaches, participants can work on their skills or simply enjoy some friendly matches with friends and fellow beach volleyball enthusiasts.
High School Doubles League
Sundays just got even more exciting with the High School Doubles League, running from September 10 to November 19. Athletes are encouraged to sign up as a team, with whom they will compete in two matches each week. The last two weeks are dedicated to thrilling playoffs, where every team gets a chance to showcase their skills in a relaxed, coaching-free environment. It’s the perfect way to keep the sand between your toes during the traditional indoor high school season.
Adult Co-Ed Doubles League
Adults aren’t left out either! The Adult Co-Ed Doubles League, taking place on Sundays at 4 PM from September 10 to November 19, offers a fantastic opportunity for friends and couples to team up and compete. Teams will participate in two matches each week, with playoffs set for the final two weeks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, this league promises camaraderie and competitive fun.
“At DME Academy, we’re excited to continue to grow beach volleyball in Daytona Beach this fall. The sand courts at DME are waiting for you, so come join us for a season filled with skill development, teamwork, and a lot of fun playing beach volleyball,” said Lenniger. Whether you’re a rising star or a recreational player, DME Academy’s Fall Beach Volleyball events have something for everyone.
To learn more or register, click here.
The halls of DME Academy reverberated with the sounds of dribbling basketballs and the echoes of enthusiastic cheers as the renowned institution recently concluded another highly successful Summer Prep camp season. With a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to nurturing aspiring athletes, DME Academy once again demonstrated its prowess in providing top-tier training and development opportunities for young athletes.
The Basketball Summer Prep camp, which took place from July 7 to 31, drew significant attention and anticipation as it quickly sold out, underscoring the eagerness of young basketball enthusiasts to elevate their game. Boys and girls aged 14 to 19 converged at DME Academy to participate in the intensive 25-day program. Designed to cater to serious basketball athletes seeking to advance to the next level, the camp provided a comprehensive platform for skill enhancement and game readiness.
Guided by DME’s seasoned coaches, each possessing a wealth of college and/or professional experience, the athletes were fully engaged in an immersive and transformational training program. DME Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies complemented the training sessions, providing a dynamic environment for growth and improvement.
The basketball camp’s itinerary was meticulously crafted to provide a comprehensive experience. The athletes engaged in two on-court practices per day, accompanied by four strength and conditioning workouts per week to optimize their physical capabilities. Beach workouts added an extra layer of intensity to the program, enhancing endurance and strength. The inclusion of three Florida AAU events and approximately 15 games ensured that the athletes received exposure to high levels of competition. When they weren’t training, the DME campers enjoyed their down time visiting college campuses, taking group trips to the movies and mall, and catching a Daytona Tortugas baseball game.
Recognizing the importance of keeping families engaged in their athletes’ journey, DME Academy employed an array of tools to ensure parents remained well-informed and connected. Live-streamed home games brought the thrill of competition to parents’ screens, regardless of their geographical location, allowing them to witness the progress and dedication of their young athletes. Professionally recorded games, conveniently accessible through platforms like Hudl and Youtube, not only provided a chance for parents to review their children’s performances but also reinforced DME Academy’s commitment to transparency and quality. Furthermore, a dedicated WhatsApp group was established, facilitating the seamless sharing of daily updates, photos, and videos, enabling parents to experience the daily activities and progress of their athletes firsthand. This holistic approach to communication solidified the sense of community and collaboration between DME Academy, athletes, and their families, fostering an environment of trust and shared achievement.
The appeal of DME Academy’s Summer Prep camp transcended geographical boundaries. Campers flocked to the academy from near and far, underscoring the program’s reputation internationally. DME Academy proudly hosted groups from across the world, including Qatar and Switzerland.
Derrick Lang, the executive director of DLANG Training, brought over 35 players from Switzerland. Lang’s involvement highlighted the global recognition of DME Academy’s training expertise. Additionally, BE Basketball, a premier basketball program in Qatar and a valued partner of DME Academy, sent two athletes from Doha, Qatar, to benefit from the comprehensive training at the camp.
Reflecting on the remarkable success of the Summer Prep camp season, Matt Panaggio, Director of Basketball at DME Academy, shared, “Our goal is to create an environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the court. The Summer Prep camps embody our commitment to fostering growth, and it’s truly inspiring to witness the transformation of these young athletes over the course of the program.”
Beyond the basketball court, DME Academy’s dedication to comprehensive athlete development extended across sports. Baseball, Soccer, and Volleyball also stepped into the spotlight, hosting Summer Prep camps in July. The four camps welcomed over 150 athletes to DME’s campus, creating a melting pot of athletic talent and camaraderie.
The Summer Prep camps, while rooted in the pursuit of athletic excellence, evolved into much more than mere training sessions. They transformed into vibrant celebrations of sport, dedication, and the power of teamwork. As the athletes bid adieu to their summer training grounds, they carried with them not only enhanced skills but also a profound sense of belonging to a community united by their love for the game and their determination to be the best versions of themselves.
To be the first to know about DME’s Summer Prep camps in 2024, fill out the camp form here!
Laura Stegall, DME Academy’s hardworking and selfless Athletic Director, will be leaving Daytona, and her DME family could not let her go without thanking her for all that she’s done for our student-athletes, staff, and academy.
Stegall joined DME Academy in 2021, after launching the women’s volleyball program at Daytona State College and coaching the Falcons for seven years. During her time at DSC, she produced six nationally-ranked teams and was named AVCA Southeast Region 2 Year College Coach of the Year in 2019. Stegall mentored her student-athletes on and off the court, averaging a 3.5 or above program GPA each year and boasting a near perfect graduation rate during her coaching career.
At DME Academy, Stegall continued to lead her student-athletes to success by being a mentor, guide, and ‘second mother’ to most, especially DME’s volleyball players. She has helped to develop well-rounded student-athletes, and has improved their performance in the classroom, on the court, and in life. Stegall’s leadership has been instrumental in setting a standard of excellence at the academy that has been embraced by DME’s student-athletes, staff, and families alike.
Dan Panaggio, Owner and Co-Founder of DME Academy, stated, “Laura Stegall has been a huge part of the growth of DME Academy. She was a selfless and tireless worker that had the respect of everyone. She is leaving quite a hole in the heart and soul of our school. We will miss her kindness and friendship.”
To hear more about the impact Laura Stegall has had on the DME community, watch the video below:
DME Academy wishes Laura and the entire Stegall family good luck on their next adventure in life, and looks forward to seeing them find continued success. The Stegall’s will truly be missed, but will forever be a part of the great DME Academy Family.
The DME Academy indoor club volleyball program will be holding tryouts on Sunday, July 30, 2023.
DME Academy’s indoor club volleyball program has announced they will be holding tryouts on Sunday, July 30, 2023 for their 13U-18U teams. The evaluations will take place at DME’s five-star facilities, which includes seven indoor courts.
The elite volleyball club has teams for girls aged 8-18 and focuses on developing athletes of various skill levels, and exposing them to the highest levels of competition across the country.
DME Academy’s competitive indoor club volleyball program has a short but rich history in winning, thanks to the unique combination of top tier coaches, world-class facilities, and dedicated athletes. During this past season, both the 14-1 Elite and 15-1 Elite earned spots at the 2023 USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championship, an impressive accomplishment and representation of the work and commitment that DME athletes dedicate to their sport.
Athletes who are interested in being a part of a competitive and elite indoor club volleyball program like DME’s should consider showcasing their talents at the upcoming tryouts.
DME Academy U14 Volleyball Team Finishes 3rd at the USAV Girls Junior National Championship held in Chicago!
The U14 DME Academy volleyball team showcased their exceptional talent and determination as they secured an impressive third-place finish at the prestigious USAV Girls Junior National Volleyball Championship tournament held in Chicago.
The nine-day tournament hosted by USA Volleyball featured over 100 of the most skilled volleyball teams with the most distinguished volleyball players from around the country. This year’s tournament was held at the McCormick Place convention center in Chicago, Illinois.
With unwavering teamwork and remarkable skills on display, DME volleyball left a lasting impression on the national level. Their outstanding performance throughout the tournament demonstrated their commitment to excellence and their ability to rise to the occasion, making them a force to be reckoned with in youth volleyball.
Facing fierce competition from elite teams nationwide, the U14 DME Academy players exhibited remarkable athleticism, strategic play, and consistent focus. The team’s success can be attributed to their strong work ethic, the exceptional coaching from Brooke VanBrocklin and Rodrigo Saunders, and relentless drive to succeed.
Placing third in a tournament of this caliber is a testament to DME Academy’s mission to become a powerhouse on the national level. The U14 DME Academy volleyball team has undoubtedly established itself as a rising star in the volleyball community, leaving a lasting impression on the sport and paving the way for DME’s growing volleyball program.
Congratulations to Emma Cronje, Nailah Cullom, Jade Gunter, Mollie Hale, Sofia Mackin, Keri Petro, Arden Reynolds, Sarah Stegall, Grace Taylor, Sadie VanBrocklin, and Lillian VanDeusen on a successful volleyball season!
Dream of competing on the national stage? You can learn more about DME Academy’s volleyball program here!
