Longtime Badger assistant departs UW for LOVB

MADISON, Wis. – After spending 15 seasons with Wisconsin volleyball both as a student-athlete and assistant coach, Annemarie Hickey departs Wisconsin to take on a full-time assistant coaching position with LOVB Madison. 
 
“In the 50+ years of the volleyball program here at Wisconsin, Annemarie has contributed as much, and gave more of herself, as anyone who has been a part of it,” said head coach Kelly Sheffield. “She came to Madison 15 years ago as a freshman eventually earning a starter position, was one of the best libero’s that’s ever come through here, a Team Captain who led our team to the National Championship match, was a volunteer coach, a technical and statistical analyst, and an assistant coach.  She worked hard, learned, passionately mentored our players, and helped take our program to levels that we otherwise would not have gotten to without her. Without question she has been one of the most influential people for this program. Her dedication and work ethic has earned her a lot of opportunities and I’m excited for her future as she moves full-time into the professional level as a coach.”
 
The former libero for the Badgers spent the 2014-15 season as the Badgers’ volunteer assistant coach, before transitioning into the technical coordinator role in 2017. In 2022, Hickey was named assistant coach and director of scouting and player development. Also, in 2022, Hickey was the only person in her role to be recognized by the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s (AVCA) Third Under 30 class of 2022 for her hard work, passion for reaching and growing the game.
 
“Being part of the Wisconsin Volleyball program has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life,” said Hickey. The program as a whole has taught me that true confidence isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about knowing who you are, trusting your preparation, and uplifting others along the way. During my time here, I’ve grown not just as a person but as a servant leader—someone who measures success by the growth and strength of those around them. This program has shown me the power of being surrounded by genuine people who challenge you, support you, and share the same drive and values.”
 
“Coaching at Wisconsin has reflected life in remarkable ways — it’s not just about winning points or matches,” Hickey expressed. “It’s about creating something larger than yourself, investing in others, and helping them believe in who they are and what they’re capable of. The growth I’ve observed — in the athletes, in the team, and in myself — has been deeply impactful.”
 
Hickey adds, “The lessons I’ve learned here will stay with me forever; they have built me into the person I am today. Because once you’ve had the privilege to be part of something this special, you don’t just leave it behind — you carry it with you, and you use it to keep building wherever you go.”
 
Hickey was a four-year letter winner of the Badgers from 2010-13. She served as a team captain in 2013, aiding Wisconsin to an appearance in the NCAA Championship match. Hickey ranks third on Wisconsin’s career digs record list with 1,849 digs and tied for second in career average digs with 3.98 digs per set. In 2013, Hickey became the first Badger to win the “Bring It!” Award, which is one of only two accolades voted on by members of the Wisconsin volleyball program and awarded at the end of each season, honoring the player that best embodies the “Bring It!” attitude.
 
In LOVB’s inaugural season, Hickey served as an assistant with LOVB Madison and will now assume the role with LOVB full-time.