Volleyball coach John Yunker arrives at Lakeville North from Champlin Park

Rayna Christianson never expected to experience a coaching change going into her senior volleyball season at Lakeville North.

One of the nation’s top setters and a Creighton recruit, Christianson saw her mentor, Jackie Richter, depart to become a Division I assistant at St. Thomas this year. She was replaced by Champlin Park’s longtime coach, John Yunker.

“Jackie helped me so much with becoming a better player and better person on the court,” Christianson said. “She kind of made me love the sport of volleyball.”

Yunker, who spent 14 years at Champlin Park, had no intention of replacing Richter when the job first opened. Still, he had always encouraged players not to be afraid of new challenges.

“There were no hard feelings with anybody when I left,” Yunker said. “They understood sometimes you have to try something different and need a reset. The Lakeville community coaches, players and families have been very welcoming. I’m excited to go.”

Richter, a 2017 state champion, is a member of the Minnesota Volleyball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Yunker’s résumé is also impressive, with eight state appearances, including the 2018 Class 3A title. Champlin Park finished as Class 4A runner-up to Lakeville South last year.

“Coach Yunker has demonstrated his excellence throughout the years by leading a successful high school program,” Richter said. “I’m confident he will continue to elevate the Panther volleyball program to the next level.”