Over the next few weeks, ECSUVikings.com will be highlighting each of our head coaches and their programs. Our second installment is with Vanessa Faircloth, ECSU's volleyball coach.
Tell us about your background.
Born and raised in Lumberton, North Carolina. Played volleyball, basketball, and softball from 7th grade throughout high school. After high school, I attended Virginia Intermont College and played volleyball. I played two seasons for VIC before taking a year off, and then I enrolled at Norfolk State University. I played two seasons for the Spartans before graduating with a bachelors degree in Applied Mathematics.
How did you know that you wanted to coach?
I have always enjoyed helping with the youth, even when I was still technically a child/ teenager. My first real coaching experience was with a club team my freshmen year at Virginia Intermont College, and I have been teaching the game at various levels ever since!
What keeps you in the coaching profession?
Love of the game and desire to help athletes reach their potential!
What makes ECSU special to you?
It felt like family from the minute I was hired. Both administrators and coworkers are easy to talk to, and help each other out.
What makes you excited when you look forward to 2019-2020 season?
My team knows we have a lot of work to do, and they are up for the challenge! They have welcomed me, and have worked hard to meet and exceed my expectations!! We are returning all but one athlete from last season, and we have signed four freshmen who can all make an impact from day one. This will be a great season!!
Favorite quote
"There may be people that have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do." – Derek Jeter
Favorite place to eat? Favorite place to eat in EC?
Village Inn, local seafood restaurant in Lumberton.
I'm still exploring food options in Elizabeth City. I tend to frequent Bojangles and Zaxby's, but have also enjoyed meals at Plaza Azteca and City Grill along with others. I love eating local, so I look forward to trying all of the local restaurants EC has to offer.
Favorite book
I honestly don't read much, but my current favorite book is: It's Not Because I'm Better Than You by Don Carey III
Favorite TV show
Any crime show!!!!! Criminal Minds and Numbers are probably on top of the list.
Favorite place to travel in CIAA?
Still figuring that out!! I look forward to finding all the great things each institution and it's city have to offer as we travel this year.
Favorite place to travel in general (personal travel)?
Currently, Orlando, FL. My son and I have traveled there each of the last 5 years, so it has become special to me and our family.
Favorite sports team
Duke Basketball
