Eryn Leja will begin her inaugural campaign as Head Coach of the Vanguard Lions this fall, after spending 2010 as the top assistant coach for then-Head Coach Marissa Booker. Leja was tabbed as the next leader for the program in May 2011, after Booker resigned, and will assume a 2011 roster with experienced returners and talented newcomers.

"I feel very grateful and excited for this opportunity to step into the head coaching role for the volleyball program at Vanguard," Leja said. "Having been involved in the program for a year, I am only more thankful that I am able to become a larger part of an institution with quality Christian values.I also feelblessed with a current, fantastic roster to work with as well as a very exciting new class of athletes.I am confident in my preparation because of my involvement in the Volleyball community as well as my education. Yet the most important part of this new role will continue to be the focus on the development of our young women as people."

Leja joined Booker as the top assistant on the Lions' coaching staff in August 2010.Vanguard finished the season with a record of 14-15, including a 6-14 mark in the GSAC. Vanguard's 2010 campaign marked Leja's first season as a coach at the collegiate level, though she had six years of volleyball coaching and a terrific playing career under her belt.

As a player, Eryn spent two seasons at College of the Desert, where she led the program as a two-time team captain.She garnered first-team all-conference recognition in both campaigns, and earned the team MVP award twice. In addition, Leja was awarded COD's Female "Athlete of the Year" in 2007. Following her time at College of the Desert, Leja attended U.C. Riverside, where she redshirted in 2007. Leja then transferred to Chapman University the following year, and played two seasons for the Panthers. As a senior in 2009-2010, Leja was named a team captain and earned second-team All-Independent conference honors.

Leja was also a successful coach during her playing career. In 2009, Leja was an assistant coach for the 951 Elite 17's, who captured a gold medal at the Junior Olympics in Miami, Florida. The following season, she continued in her role for the Elite 18's. Leja has also coached two seasons for the Desert Sports Volleyball Club in Palm Desert, California.

"I love the family-like atmosphere of Vanguard," Leja stated. "As well as the values, morals, and character of the individuals I will be working with."

Leja graduated from Chapman in 2010, and is pursuing a Master's Degree in Sports Administration. Leja is single and lives in Huntington Beach.