BELGRADE — Sarah Fowler has been recommended as the new head volleyball coach at Belgrade, according to a press release from Superintendent Dede Semerad that was sent to the Belgrade News on Friday.

The school board will vote on Fowler’s appointment at the July 14 meeting.

“We believe her continued leadership will benefit the Belgrade student-athlete community,” Semerad wrote.

Fowler replaces Hali (Ehresmann) Reed, whose contract was not renewed after one season at the helm. Reed guided the team to a 13-12 record a year ago, including a 3-11 mark in the Eastern AA.

Fowler is a Belgrade graduate and played college basketball at Montana State University and professionally overseas. Over 25 years as an educator (English Language Arts teacher) and coach, she has accumulated a diverse resume.

Fowler has coached middle school, junior varsity and varsity levels in basketball and volleyball. She was twice head coach of the basketball program, guiding the team to state in 2017 and 2018, and served as an assistant coach under Jade Schmidt when the volleyball team reached the state Class A championship match in 2017 and 2018.

“Sarah’s passion for student success — both on and off the court — makes her an invaluable leader for our volleyball program,” Shanna Smith, principal at Belgrade High, said in the press release. “Her experience, integrity, and commitment to excellence set the standard for what it means to be a Panther.”

Fowler holds a Master of Education from Lesley University and dual Bachelor’s degrees from Montana State University.

“Her academic and professional background position her well to continue fostering a positive and competitive athletic environment,” Semerad wrote.