The Waynesboro girls volleyball program mourns the sudden loss of one of its most dedicated leaders, Kim Saunders, who passed away at the age of 53. Her passing, initially reported by the Chambersburg Public Opinion, was confirmed at Waynesboro Hospital on July 27. A proud 1991 graduate of the school, Saunders spent nearly 15 years transforming the Maidens' volleyball program into a powerhouse known throughout the region. Her impact on the sport and the community will be long remembered.
From player to coach, a lifelong commitment to the school
Saunders' journey with the school began as a standout athlete in both volleyball and basketball, setting a foundation for her deep connection to the program. After playing volleyball at Morgan State University, she returned to coaching, taking positions at multiple college programs in North Carolina. In 2012, she came back to her high school alma mater and immediately made her mark, turning the high school program into a consistent Mid-Penn Conference competitor. Her return was a homecoming of sorts, as she infused her coaching with the same passion she once showed as a player.
Under her guidance, the Maidens earned multiple Mid-Penn Conference division Coach of the Year honors and reached a significant milestone in her final season with 200 career coaching victories. Her final year saw the team finish with a 14-6 record and a successful run into the PIAA District 3 Class 4A Tournament. Beyond her time at Waynesboro, Saunders also contributed to the development of young athletes through her work with various club volleyball programs.
Community reacts with grief and gratitude
The sudden news of her passing caused an outpouring of emotion from across the volleyball community. Greencastle-Antrim's girls volleyball program expressed its sorrow in a Facebook post, writing, 'We are shocked and heartbroken to hear of the sudden passing of an incredible coach and role model to many young female athletes.' The message also extended heartfelt support to the Waynesboro volleyball program, its families, and Saunders' loved ones. Tributes from fellow athletes and coaches continue to highlight the profound effect she had on the sport and her players.
A legacy to be honored through a memorial fund
Kim Saunders leaves behind her husband, Mark Saunders, who also served as the head football coach at Waynesboro and stepped down earlier this year. The couple is parents to their son, Ethan, and she is also survived by her mother, Ann Spottswood, and sister, Michelle Spottswood. to 8 p.m. at Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home. on Saturday, August 1, at Trinity United Church of Christ in Waynesboro. The family has announced the creation of a memorial fund to honor Saunders' memory and support student-athletes and future Waynesboro athletics endeavors.