2021 Locals Love Us favorite coach: Burnet High School’s Crystal Shipley

When Burnet High School head volleyball coach Crystal Shipley found out she was voted a 2021 Locals Love Us favorite school coach, she couldn’t hide her shock.
“Wow, what a surprise! I feel honored that I was even thought of for this award,” she said. “It is a bit of a shock at first knowing how many great coaches we have in Burnet, which is why it is such an incredible honor to be chosen for that title.”
The award is voted on by The Picayune Magazine readers and KBEY 103.9 FM Radio Picayune listeners.
“I feel so special that people in the community recognize coaches, teachers, etcetera, and that I was thought of and selected,” she said. “Getting honored in this way is special and an overwhelming feeling of gratitude.”
Shipley is in her second year as head volleyball coach and has guided the Lady Dawgs to the playoffs in both seasons. In 2020, the team won a playoff match for the first time in nine years.
Shipley’s approach to coaching is simple.
“Love what you do and show it. Once you don’t love it, it’s time to go,” she said. “Never stop learning. There are so many legendary coaches and colleagues out there that are always willing to help me learn and get better. Swallowing my pride and knowing that there is always another way when your way isn’t working is a big deal to me.
“It’s not about me, it’s about the people around me,” she added. “I’ve worked with some outstanding coaches that have come through Burnet and some that are still here that I go to often for advice.” 
jfierro@thepicayune.com