Meet Sara Mathews | Owner & Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sara Mathews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sara, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Our brand’s success is all about the community. The diverse volleyball community fosters inclusivity and versatility, vital for our club’s growth. This diversity is what makes our environment so dynamic and welcoming. Personally, I’m passionate about nurturing this sense of community every step of the way. Whether it’s organizing outreach programs or teaming up with local gyms and schools, we aim to make volleyball accessible to all, ensuring that every child has the chance to experience the sport. It’s not just about building a brand; it’s about building connections.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Working in sports, especially in a female-dominated field, feels like riding a rollercoaster! But I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with young kids and watch them grow as athletes and individuals. My staff and I are committed to more than just teaching volleyball skills; we aim to make it fun, build confidence, and promote self-care. Coaching allows us to make a difference through the sport we love. We emphasize positive self-talk, how to be a teammate, and the importance of hard work and good recovery habits to prevent injuries.

It’s taken a lot to get to where we are today and it can be exhausting, but when I look back I feel incredibly lucky as I get to do what I love everyday. It doesn’t come without it’s hurdles, lots and lots of hurdles, but the impact I know it has on our community and the people around me is more than worth it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I mean if there’s no budget then hands down we’re going to Iberian pig, Melton’s App & Tap, Waikiki Hawaiian BBQ, Community Q BBQ, and White Bull. Those are my big go-to restaurants. As for places to visit, if it’s in season we’re going to a Ga Tech volleyball match in the O’Keefe gym, it’s an experience I think everyone should have at least once. I love taking walks through the Decatur Cemetery as it’s a beautiful at sunset, but Mason Mill park is my favorite place to walk my dog, it has break off trails that lead to mini hikes and dog parks.

To drink if Avondale is doing a beer crawl, that is where to go! I am not a huge drinker, but I’ve gone to tag along with friends and its a great experience and town.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My family- Janice (Mom), Nikki (Sister) & Mike (Brother in-law). My mom passed on her passion for volleyball, her strong sense of work ethic and community, shaping the path I chose and instilling in me a sense of community evident through Ace. Nikki, my sister, has always been someone I looked up to, not just because she’s my sister (and taller than me) but because for as long as I can remember she has always been unapologetically herself which greatly influenced who I am today. Mike, my actual brother from another mother, has broadened my perspective in countless ways, encouraging me to approach things differently. I have learned so much from him in so many different ways.

Alex Ruffin, where do I even start! Alex flew into the picture five years ago, even though it feels like I grew up with Alex.
He truly plays a pivotal role in Ace’s growth. He is the head of our Sports Performance program, he’s an Assistant Director, and a Head Coach, his titles speak for themselves. Beyond that, he’s one of the most remarkable people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He knows when it’s time to put in the work and get things done, but he also has the ability to make an entire room fall to the floor laughing.

Terry Hess & his family- While I’ve learned a lot about business from them, for me the biggest part is that they have shown me so much on how to just be a good person. How to give support and advice without judgment and that not knowing something doesn’t make you any lesser than as long as you’re always open to learning and growing. I and Ace would not be where we are today without them.

Website: https://Acevba.com

Instagram: @AceVBA

Facebook: AceVBA

Image Credits
Alyssa McGrail Photography
Skapa Company