OUR MISSION
The mission of 495 Legacy Volleyball is to expand opportunities to play volleyball guided by outstanding coaches at an affordable cost.
Club Philosophy
Exceptional Coaching
We recruit coaches who understand that their role isn’t just to train volleyball players—it’s to foster the development of athletes as a people. Using evidence-based strategies, we develop athletes’ volleyball skills while also supporting their social-emotional growth. At 495, players’ voices are heard—coaches encourage open communication and shared decision-making, creating a learning environment where athletes feel safe, motivated, and empowered.
Positive & Competitive
We foster a growth mindset where our whole community—players, coaches, parents—are encouraged to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and focus on continuous improvement. We value effort over outcomes, emphasizing hard work, persistence, and learning rather than just winning. And above all, we cultivate a respectful environment where athletes support each other and compete with integrity.
Expand Access
We are committed to equity in opportunity. Our mission is to make high-quality club volleyball accessible to athletes from underrepresented and underserved communities, especially those whose families cannot afford the high costs of traditional club teams. We aim to close that gap by financial assistance to families who qualify so that talent and effort—not family income—determines who gets to play.
Through every coach, every player, and every family, we strive to build a legacy that shapes lives, on and off the court.
495 Leadership
Sara Williams
Sara Williams brings a wealth of coaching and leadership experience to 495 Legacy Volleyball. A dedicated advocate for player development, equity in sports access, and coach mentorship, Sara is committed to growing volleyball in the DMV. She currently serves as the Head Coach of both the boys’ and girls’ varsity volleyball teams at Walter Johnson High School. In addition to her high school coaching, Sara has coached with the Maryland Volleyball Program (MVP) and the Chinese Youth Club (CYC) volleyball program. As Director, she leads the club’s mission to provide high-quality training and access to competitive volleyball for all athletes, regardless of financial background.
Liam Morris
Liam Morris is 495 Legacy’s Technical Director. Coach Liam began playing volleyball at Walter Johnson High School winning “Player of the Year” his senior year. He played middle at Belmont Abbey College (Division I) where he was ranked third in the nation for blocks per set. His senior year, the Abbey won Conference Carolinas for the first time in school history. That year, Belmont Abby played in the first round of the NCAA tournament against Penn State. Coach Liam is the Assistant Coach for Walter Johnson High School boys’ and girls’ Varsity teams. Coach Liam has a Master’s in Education and teaches middle school math at St. Jane de Chantal School in Bethesda.
Fatima Bouzid
Fatima Bouzid brings over 12 years of competitive club volleyball experience and a deep passion for empowering youth through sports. A former NCAA Division III athlete, Coach Fatima has spent the past three years coaching and mentoring young players across the DMV. Off the court, she is attending Cornell University, studying Public Administration. Coach Fatima is committed to creating a club culture centered on skill development, teamwork, and a strong sense of belonging. Through 495, she is building a community where athletes feel supported, inspired, and empowered to grow both on and off the court.
