CLINTON, Iowa – A former volleyball standout is set to make her return to the sidelines this fall.

The Ashford University Athletic Department announced on Monday that Kelsay McCausland has been named Assistant Volleyball Coach effective immediately.

"It's exciting to have her return to the program," said Head Coach Micah Cewe.  "She did some great things for us as a player, and I'm excited for her to step into her new role as a coach.  I think she's a great fit because she knows the expectations of the program after being a player and can help emphasize our philosophy to what will be a youthful team."

McCausland closed the book on an outstanding career in the fall of 2010.  She was a two-time First Team All-Midwest Collegiate Conference (MCC) performer for the Saints while also twice landing on the Honorable Mention All-MCC squad.  In addition, the Camanche, Iowa-native was listed as a 2009 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) All-Midwest Region Honorable Mention team honoree.

She appeared in 168 matches throughout her career in purple and gold, recording 1,394 kills in the process.  In addition, the former middle blocker also notched 509 blocks, 369 digs and 104 service aces during that time.

For the Saints, her main responsibilities will include assisting Cewe with many aspects of the program including recruiting, opponent scouting and something that she was familiar with in her old position at AU, academic success.  McCausland comes to the athletic realm after spending the last year working in the Office of Student Success on the AU Clinton Campus.

"I'm really excited to be back around the game, I really missed it last year," said McCausland.  "After working with the academic side of the (Ashford) University last year, I understand that part of it, which will help me be an academic resource for our girls.  I'm really looking forward to the season and helping our young team grow for the future."

A Camanche High School graduate, McCausland was a two-time First Team All-Big East Conference selection for the Indians while earning the league's Player of the Year award as a senior.  Additionally, she earned Honorable Mention All-State accolades during her senior campaign.

"Kelsay is from and knows this area, she's been one of our team leaders and was a team captain for two years," added Cewe.  "She's someone we could trust as a player, and I know that will carry over to her coaching career as well."

McCausland graduated from Ashford in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in public relations/marketing and graphic design.  She is currently enrolled in the master's of business administration degree program at AU.