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George Padjen has resigned as head coach of the Indy Ignite professional volleyball team less than a week after leading the first-year squad to a runner-up finish in the Pro Volleyball Federation championship match.
The Ignite announced Monday that Padjen stepped down last week, citing a desire to spend more time with family.
Padjen led the Ignite to a 13-15 regular-season record and a five-set victory over the Omaha Supernovas in the semifinals of the league championship tournament. The team’s season ended with a four-set loss to the Orlando Valkyries on May 11 in the PVF title game.
The Ignite posted an 8-6 record in home matches at the Fishers Event Center.
“It’s been an unforgettable inaugural season with the Indy Ignite, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a special community here in Fishers and Indianapolis,” said Padjen in a written statement. “While I have loved coaching in Indy, it’s time for me to spend more time with my family.”
Ignite President and General Manager Mary Kay Huse said she plans to work with the Ignite’s ownership group, coaches and players to find the next team leader.
“I appreciate George for his contributions to this organization in our inaugural season,” said Huse in written comments. “We are grateful for his leadership in helping to recruit a fantastic roster and taking us to the PVF Championship in Year One. We wish him all the best moving forward.”
Padjen captured nine NCAA Division II championships as an assistant coach at Concordia-St. Paul in Minnesota before making the leap to the pros.
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Time to go get one of the Shondell brothers, the undeniable godfather’s of volleyball in Indiana and arguably the US.
Agreed. Class act family with a solid coaching resume.
John Shondell is already an Assistant Coach.