KENOSHA, Wis. – Parkside Athletics and Director of Athletics Adam Schemm '08 are proud to announce that Leigh Barea has signed a multi-year contract extension to remain the leader of the Parkside volleyball program.

"Leigh has been a tremendous leader of our volleyball program during her time at Parkside," said Schemm. "She has built our program with true care and connection. I am excited to have her continue to lead our program for the long-haul and cannot wait to see where she takes it."

Barea, who will be entering her ninth season with the Rangers this fall, has guided the Rangers through steady growth in one of Division II's most competitive conferences, while establishing Parkside as one of the toughest teams in the GLIAC.

"I'm incredibly honored and grateful for the trust to continue leading this program and to build on the momentum we've created," said Barea. "Our team, staff, and the entire Parkside community have been instrumental in helping us build something truly special.  I'm proud of the growth we've seen and excited for what's ahead as we continue to raise our standard while staying true to who we are and representing the Parkside family the right way."

The Rangers are coming off another milestone year under Barea's leadership, where the Rangers got off to a 9-0 start for the first time in program history, finishing with a 19-9 overall record and an 11-1 record in De Simone Arena. The Rangers also went on the road and won the GLIAC Quarterfinals match at Northern Michigan.

The 2023 GLIAC Coach of the Year has recruited and coached numerous All-GLIAC honorees during her tenure. Under her leadership, Parkside has also secured three major All-GLIAC honors with Ann Leo being named the GLIAC Libero of the year in 2019 and Natalie Harris being named the GLIAC Defensive Player of the year in 2024 and 2025. Harris was later named an All-American by the AVCA.  

Barea and the Rangers will make their 2026 debut on August 28^th at the Britkare Lady Buff Invitational with four matches in Canyon, Texas. Parkside will make their home debut on September 4^th with matches against the University of Jamestown and Nova Southeastern University at 2 and 6pm.