Menlo College

Expressing her gratitude for the support of the Menlo College community, Coach Sheldon stated, "It has been an incredible journey leading Menlo's women's volleyball program, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such talented and dedicated student-athletes. My decision to change roles was not made lightly, and it took into account my commitment to my family, for whom I have an active role in providing essential support and care."
 

A coach with 30 years experience, Sheldon has been Menlo's head coach for seven years. During her tenure as head coach at Menlo, she garnered accolades, wins, and memorable moments, including:

• Leading the Oaks to their first GSAC Regular Season Title in Program History in 2019

• Leading the Oaks to their first trip to the NAIA National Tournament since 2014

• 94 wins, including 22 in 2017, the most since 1991 in a single season

• Five winning seasons in six years of competition, and four conference championship appearances

• 10 All-GSAC selections, including the first since joining the GSAC in 2015; two NAIA All-Americans; an NAIA Player of the Year; six GSAC and Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athletes; two AVCA All-Region First Team members; and two AVCA All-Region Honorable Mention team members
   

While the 2023 season may be her last, it was an outstanding run for the Oaks from start to finish: the season included an eight-match winning streak. The team also made a run to the championship round of the GSAC Tournament, had three players named to the GSAC All-Conference team, and one named as the conference Libero-of-the-Year; the team ended the season receiving votes in the National NAIA Top 25 Polls. 
 

Sheldon added, "To the incredible women who have worn the Menlo jersey, I want to express my deepest gratitude. I am excited to look forward to the continued success of this remarkable group of women on and off the court as you become the leaders of tomorrow, make your mark in NCAA Division II, and earn a PacWest Championship in 2024!  I am profoundly thankful for the support and opportunity afforded to me by Vice President Keith Spataro and President Steven Weiner, allowing me to not only continue contributing to the Menlo College community but also to take on a leadership position that aligns with my aspirations. Staying at Menlo College, where my heart is deeply invested, is a privilege, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in this new chapter of my professional journey." 
 

Vice President for Athletics Keith Spataro expressed his appreciation, saying: "From the outset, it was evident that the team would be in great hands with Denise's leadership. She has laid an outstanding foundation for the future of the team and we look forward to her bringing her talent to her new role, to the benefit of the Menlo community!"