University of Nevada Athletics

RENO, Nev. - Growing up in Kapolei, Hawaii on the island of Oahu, Nevada volleyball assistant coach Megan Burton was surrounded by a support system that one needs to become successful in athletics and in life. She was fortunate enough to go to a good high school and play in a club volleyball system that not only put her up against the best competition, but that also helped guide her through the recruiting process in an effort to help her find the best college possible.

After a decorated playing career at St. Mary's where she led the Gaels to two NCAA Tournaments in 2008 and 2009, Burton joined the coaching ranks and recently finished her second season with the Wolf Pack volleyball program. About two months after the conclusion of the 2015 season, Burton felt like it was a good time to return home and give back to those who love to play the game but weren't as fortunate as she was.

Burton was one of 14 college volleyball coaches to participate in Na Keiki Mau Loa's inaugural Collegiate Volleyball Coaching Clinic, an event held in Oahu that helped showcase the talents of girl's high school volleyball players that are not able to afford club volleyball and sessions attended by collegiate coaches from the mainland.

"Being a local girl and giving back to the Hawaii volleyball community is a blessing," said Burton. "The kids were very humble and coachable and I think the clinic showed them that despite their circumstances they can compete at the highest level."

While the clinic gave players the opportunity to be taught by college coaches, it also educated them on the recruiting process. Montana head coach Brian Doyan led the clinic that also saw coaches from St. Mary's, Winthrop, Navy, Utah and the College of Southern Idaho, a junior college program that just won its 11th NJCAA National Championship in the fall.

"The girls got to see different schools from every level of college volleyball," said Burton. "The clinic helped refine skills but it also showed kids and parents that there are a ton of options to play volleyball at the next level is just as important."

Burton estimated that 60-70 players attended the clinic, a total that shows the interest and eagerness of girls in Oahu that want to play college volleyball.

"I'm looking forward to going back for many years," said Burton. "My hope now is that I can continue to go back and give the kids the knowledge that I was fortunate enough to have at their age."