Looking to replicate the same formula of success, Heritage Christian Academy has turned to a former player to lead its volleyball program.
Ashton Craft has been promoted to head coach of the Lady Warrior program that begins its season next week.
HCA Athletic Director Candy Hayes said she would also assume some responsibility as assistant coach, and that former player and Ashton’s sister Bailey, also a former Lady Warrior player, will be the freshman head coach and junior varsity assistant coach.
Will Bruce was named head coach in May, replacing Grace Stewart, who stepped down after five seasons. She posted a 113-41 record and led the Lady Warriors to the 8th District championship and 2nd Region championship in 2024.
Hayes said Bruce will continue to coach HCA’s middle school program.
Craft played at Heritage Christian Academy under Eldridge Rogers and served as an assistant with Stewart, who took the same path to HCA’s head coaching position in 2020.
Craft coached the team at last weekend’s Bluegrass State Games in Lexington before her promotion to head coach. Her task will be to replace three starters – one to graduation and one to transfer – as well as two key reserves from last year’s 24-6 season. However, she has three starters returning, including her younger sister Allie.
Heritage Christian Academy’s 2025 roster includes one senior and solid numbers at its lower levels.
HCA will host Northside Baptist Christian School of Mayfield in its final scrimmage on Thursday and will open the 2025 season on Aug. 19 at Madisonville-North Hopkins.
Coach Ashton Craft discusses her team in the YSE interview.
