UPDATE: By the end of this month, Brianne Groth, head coach of Byron Nelson’s volleyball team, is on the brink of making history. With just two weeks remaining in the season, Groth aims to lead her team to become only the second in Texas to secure back-to-back titles while losing only one match throughout the journey. This remarkable pursuit is further complicated as she is currently 36 weeks pregnant with twin girls, balancing a demanding coaching role and family responsibilities.
Groth, who boasts an impressive 319-52 career record, has been feeling the strain of her pregnancy. She takes naps during her lunch breaks and relies on a wheeled stool to manage her coaching duties. Despite the exhaustion, Groth remains focused on her goal, drawing strength from her past challenges and the support of her team. “As I coach, I fully believe that I wouldn’t be here,” Groth stated. “And we wouldn’t be this successful if we didn’t go through the things that we went through.”
Groth is a prominent figure in Texas high school volleyball, following in the footsteps of her mother, Jan Barker, who won 10 state championships at Amarillo High School. Groth’s journey in the sport began in childhood, surrounded by volleyball, and she has dedicated her life to the game.
In her high school years, Groth earned Texas Gatorade Player of the Year honors in 2006 and 2007, leading to a successful college career at the University of Oklahoma. There, she helped the Sooners reach their first Sweet Sixteen and still ranks among the top in program history for assists and digs.
Transitioning from player to coach, Groth has faced numerous personal challenges, including a devastating miscarriage during her pregnancy with twin girls in 2021. After a difficult period, she returned to the court, leading Byron Nelson to a 38-6 record last season and a deep playoff run.
Groth’s tenure has not been without controversy. Recently, she faced allegations from parents regarding her coaching methods, which led to an investigation by Northwest ISD. The investigation concluded without credible evidence against her, but the experience forced Groth to reevaluate her identity beyond volleyball. “This is not who I am,” she reflected. “This is just a job.”
Now, as she navigates the challenges of coaching while pregnant, Groth is determined to instill a broader perspective in her players. She emphasizes that volleyball is just one part of their lives, encouraging them to enjoy the game and grow as individuals. “If I’m teaching them that,” she said, “and I’m mimicking that, and if they see that from me, then I’m doing my job.”
With the championship title within reach, Groth is not only focused on her team’s success but also cherishing her journey as a mother-to-be. As the season progresses, she prepares her players for the transition of leadership to assistant coach Chrissy Garcia, who is also expecting. Groth aims to create a supportive environment for her players, allowing them to bond and enjoy the sport as they strive for victory.
As Byron Nelson continues its pursuit of history, the volleyball community watches closely. Groth’s resilience and dedication serve as an inspiring example, showcasing the powerful intersection of motherhood and athletic achievement. The team’s next match is scheduled for October 30, 2023, as they aim to solidify their path to a remarkable championship title.
