The University of Nevada Las Vegas volleyball team announced a new addition to its coaching staff on Friday, welcoming Lauren Jardine-Clark as the program's newest assistant coach. This move brings a wealth of experience from both the collegiate and professional courts to the Rebel sidelines.
Jardine-Clark, known for her standout performances at the University of Utah and University of Wisconsin, joins UNLV after an impressive 2025 season with the Vegas Thrill of the Major League Volleyball. She played in 27 matches and 74 sets. She contributed 114 kills and maintained a .184 hitting percentage. Her ability to perform under pressure and her leadership on the court helped shape the team's inaugural season.
One of her most memorable games came on April 19. Jardine-Clark delivered a standout performance against the San Diego Mojo. She tallied 21 kills, 10 digs, and five blocks. This showcase of her all-around play exemplifies the skills and consistency UNLV hopes to integrate into their program moving forward.
From Collegiate Star to Professional Player
Jardine-Clark's career began at the University of Wisconsin, where she played a key role in the team's 2021 NCAA Championship victory. She then transferred to Utah in 2022, where she played under head coach Malia Shoji as an associate head coach. During her senior season in 2024, Jardine-Clark led the Utes with 261 kills, averaging 2.84 per set, and maintaining a .266 hitting percentage. Her time at Utah set the stage for a strong professional career, including stints with the Grand Rapids Rise and Vegas Thrill.
A Full Circle Moment for Coach and Player
Malia Shoji, UNLV's head coach, expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with Jardine-Clark, having previously coached her at Utah and followed her rise in professional volleyball. Shoji praised Jardine-Clark's resilience, competitive spirit, and personal growth, highlighting how she overcame adversity and evolved into a role model. Jardine-Clark's journey from high school and club volleyball to becoming a professional athlete, a devoted mother, and now a coach showcases the far-reaching impact of the sport. Her unique perspective and experiences will provide valuable mentorship for the next generation of Rebel student-athletes.
Jardine-Clark's professional journey began in January 2026 with the Grand Rapids Rise. She played in six matches and 10 sets. She contributed 10 kills, seven blocks, and four digs. Her debut on January 10 against the same team she later joined in 2025 proved to be a strong start to her MLV career. She recorded 13 kills, 11 digs, and a block in a pivotal five-set victory.
Throughout her collegiate career, Jardine-Clark played in 102 matches and 320 sets, compiling 869 kills (2.72 per set), 201 digs, 179 blocks, 31 aces, and 19 assists. Her contributions were particularly notable in 2021 at Wisconsin, when she was a key player on the NCAA Championship team. Her move to Utah in 2022 under Shoji further solidified her place as one of the top players in the sport.
Together, they are parents to their son, Mills, who continues to be an important part of their life.
Reflecting on her new role, Jardine-Clark expressed excitement about beginning her coaching career under Shoji. She shared how it felt meaningful to transition from being a player to being a coach under the same mentor. She described the volleyball world as closely connected and expressed pride in becoming part of the UNLV family.