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DBCU Welcomes, Coach Mara Wiirre
Daytona Beach Christian University proudly welcomes Coach Mara Wiirre as the new Head Volleyball Coach. Coach Wiirre brings a depth of experience, passion, and Christ-centered leadership to the DBCU volleyball program. A former NCAA Division II athlete, she competed for four years as a middle hitter, developing not only exceptional competitive skills but also the strong leadership qualities that now shape her coaching philosophy.
Coach Wiirre’s coaching journey has spanned high school, club, and collegiate volleyball, allowing her to mentor athletes at multiple levels of the game. Most recently, she served on staff at the University of Minnesota–Crookston, where she contributed to the development of high-performing NCAA Division II student-athletes. Her background as both a standout player and a respected coach equips her with a powerful combination of technical expertise, relatability, and athlete-centered mentorship.
In her collegiate playing career, Coach Wiirre surpassed 500 career kills, earned over 630 points, and recorded 136 total blocks—placing her among the top middle hitters in program history. She holds the program record for most kills in a single match by a middle blocker and consistently delivered strong performances, including multiple matches with an attack percentage above .500. Her on-court discipline and strategic understanding now inform her training, recruiting, and team-development approach at DBCU.
Coach Wiirre holds two degrees—one in Management and one in Marketing—giving her strong organizational, communication, and team-building skills essential for leading a collegiate program. Known for her positivity, work ethic, and deep commitment to her athletes, she strives to build an environment where players grow not only as competitors but as young women of faith and character.
Off the court, Coach Wiirre enjoys a full and joyful home life with her husband, current DBCU Assistant Baseball Coach, Jakob Wiirre, and their newborn child. Their family also includes two dogs (Rocco and Nala), two cats (Nyx and Kona), and two guinea pigs (Mo and Mort). Together, they enjoy spending time at the beach, frisbee golfing, and longboarding.
Coach Wiirre is dedicated to establishing a volleyball program that reflects excellence, integrity, and spiritual growth. Her leadership represents a new and exciting chapter for DBCU Volleyball, and the university is thrilled to welcome her to the Seraphim family.
- Advantage 1: Honor Christ Through Volleyball
- Advantage 2: Competitive Atmosphere
- Advantage 3: Team Culture
Meet Assistant Coach, Hannah Benischek
“My name is Hannah Benischek, and I am currently an assistant volleyball coach at DBCU while attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, where I study Aeronautical Science (Professional Flight). I grew up in a military family, which instilled discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic that I bring into both athletics and coaching.
I became involved with DBCU after volunteering with the Salvation Army during the Christmas season, where I connected with the athletic director and was introduced to the program. As an assistant coach, I focus on fundamentals, confidence, and teamwork while helping athletes grow both on and off the court.
Outside the gym, I am training to become a commercial and medical transport pilot and value service, preparation, and continuous improvement.”
- Faith-Based Coaching
Building Champions On and Off the Court
Program Overview:
Our volleyball program is designed to develop student-athletes who excel both on the court and in their daily walk of faith. Rooted in Christian values, we strive to foster a competitive yet uplifting environment where players grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. Through disciplined training, intentional community, and a shared commitment to excellence, we prepare athletes to represent the university with integrity and passion.
Our Mission:
To honor Christ through volleyball by cultivating a culture of hard work, positivity, and servant-leadership. We aim to equip student-athletes to compete at a high level while developing character, strengthening faith, and building lifelong habits that will help them succeed in their personal and professional lives.
Program objectives:
Develop Complete Athletes: Strengthen technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning.
Build a Christ-Centered Culture: Encourage spiritual growth through mentorship, prayer, and Christlike attitudes in competition and daily life.
Promote Team Unity: Foster an environment of encouragement, accountability, and shared purpose.
Instill Professional Habits: Emphasize discipline, responsibility, time management, and consistent effort.
Pursue Competitive Excellence: Prepare the team to compete at the highest level through intentional training and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Program Structure:
Training Sessions: Regular practices focused on skill development, systems, and competitive intensity.
Strength & Conditioning: Structured workouts designed to enhance athletic performance, durability, and long-term health.
Team Devotionals: Weekly team devotionals or small-group sessions that reinforce spiritual growth and unity.
Academic Support: Encouragement and accountability to excel in the classroom and maintain balance.
Service Opportunities: Team outreach and service projects that reflect the values of the university and model Christlike leadership.
Expectations:
Athletes in our program are expected to work hard, stay positive, and remain fully committed to the team. This includes giving consistent effort, uplifting teammates, and representing the program with integrity on and off the court. Players should show up prepared, take responsibility for their actions, communicate well, and put the team above themselves to help build a unified and positive atmosphere.
- Training Philosophy: Focused on fundamental skill development and strategic gameplay.
- Team Culture: Emphasizing respect, support, and Christian values.
- Expectations: Commitment to academic success, athletic improvement, and team unity.