Balancing the Whistle and the Workbook: Life as a Homeschool Mom & Volleyball Coach

When people hear that I homeschool my kids and coach competitive volleyball, their first reaction is usually wide-eyed wonder:
“How do you do it all?”

Truthfully?
Some days are seamless. Other days feel like I’m juggling flaming volleyballs while teaching fractions.

But I’ve learned that balance isn’t about everything being perfectly aligned all at once. It’s about learning to move with the rhythm of each season and trusting God to steady my steps.

Two Callings, One Purpose

Homeschooling and coaching might sound like two completely separate worlds—but they actually overlap in powerful ways.

Both require:

• Planning and patience
• The ability to pivot
• A whole lot of encouragement

In our homeschool, I guide my kids through math problems, essays, and history lessons. On the court, I coach athletes to push through challenges, trust the process, and celebrate progress.

At the heart of both?
Discipleship. Character. Growth.

It’s never just about grades or wins. It’s about raising resilient, disciplined, God-honoring young people.

Schedules, Sacrifices & Survival Mode

Let’s talk about the calendar—my best friend and, let’s be honest, my biggest enemy.

Between practices, tournaments, co-ops, and family commitments, it feels like everything fights for space.
We’ve had:

• Math lessons in the minivan
• Science worksheets on bleachers
• late dinners after long away fames

But over time, we’ve found our rhythm:

• My kids bring their school books to tournaments
• Older siblings help younger ones with lessons
• I’ve let go of the “perfect homeschool day” ideal

The Unexpected Gift: Community

One of the biggest blessings in this dual role? Community.

Coaching has given my kids a built-in network of friends and mentors.
Homeschooling keeps us deeply connected as a family.

And I’ve learned: asking for help doesn’t make me less capable.
It makes us stronger together.

Sometimes that means:

• Another homeschool Mom swaps lessons with me
• My assistant coach steps in when I’m needed at home
• A player’s Mom brings extra snacks or runs the scoreboard

We were never meant to do it alone.

What My Kids Learn Watching Me Coach

My daughters see me lead through hard losses and big wins. They watch me show up—tired, joyful, committed.

They’re learning that:

• Calling isn’t about convenience—it’s about consistency
• Passion and perseverance can walk hand-in-hand
• Women can lead with strength and softness

They see me giving my best, even when it’s not perfect. And that’s a lesson no textbook can teach.

Anchored in Faith

What holds all of this together isn’t my clever multitasking or color-coded calendar—it’s my faith.

I lean on this daily reminder:

This verse is my lifeline when I feel overwhelmed or underqualified.
I’m not called to be perfect. I’m called to walk faithfully.

Anchored in Faith

To the Mom balancing homeschooling and coaching—or any two callings:
You don’t have to do it all.

You just have to walk faithfully with what God’s given you.
And trust me, the wins—on the court, in the classroom, and in the hearts of your kids—are worth every sacrifice.