JACKSON, Tenn. - Union University volleyball head coach Emma Carter has named Sydney Whittaker as the assistant coach. Whittaker takes the job after a four year playing career with the Union volleyball program. 

Carter said, "I believe that great teams are built by committed leaders and I am so excited to add a coach who is committed to and passionate about service leadership and the mission behind this athletics program. Sydney will immediately have a positive impact on the culture we are trying to grow going forward."

Whittaker, a native of Ruther Glen, Virginia, graduated in early May of this year with a degree in Biblical Studies and Languages, from Union. She was named to the GSC Honor Roll all four years, while also earning D2ADA Academic Achievement Award. She finished her career with 305 kills, 89 digs, and 76 blocks. She missed nearly all of her senior year with an injury.

Whittaker said, "I believe that God is keeping me here for a purpose and I am excited to learn and grow under Coach Carter, and to work at this new job with all my heart as unto the Lord!". 

During her time as a student-athlete, Whittaker was instrumental in growing Union's Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) program to a vibrant and valuable ministry tool for athletes and the Union community as a whole. She was also given the Student Choice Award at the 2026 Top Dawg Awards, given by the student body to an athlete who has impacted student life on campus.  

Carter and Whittaker will begin their first seasons at Union as coaches August 27-29 with four matches as a part of the Union University Invitational. Follow along all season by checking out the 2026 Union Volleyball Schedule. 

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