Kuna Nakagawa, a highly regarded volleyball coach at Reno High, has retired after 13 impactful seasons. As the second-longest-tenured coach in Northern Nevada, he led the Huskies to four regional titles and eight state tournament appearances, notably defeating Bishop Gorman in a state semifinal in 2022. His departure marks the end of an era, as he leaves behind a legacy of success and strong mentorship for his athletes. He plans to continue his involvement in volleyball by coaching with the Northern Nevada Juniors volleyball club.

By the Numbers
  • 233 wins and 91 losses overall coaching record (.719 win percentage).
  • Four regional titles won in 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2022.
  • Overall league record of 120-22 (.845 win percentage).
  • Home record of 82-21 (.796 win percentage), with perfect seasons in 2017, 2019, 2021 (spring), and 2022.
  • Ranks 12th in Nevada state history for career wins.
Yes, But

Although Nakagawa's record speaks to his success, some might argue that coaching changes can disrupt the momentum of a successful program, raising concerns about how the next coach will maintain Nakagawa's legacy.

State of Play
  • Nakagawa's retirement leaves a significant gap in the Reno High volleyball program.
  • The community and players are reflecting on the impact he had on their development both on and off the court.
  • Interest in the next coaching appointment is high, as the school seeks a replacement who can uphold the rigorous standards set by Nakagawa.
What's Next

Reno High will begin the search for Nakagawa's successor, focusing on candidates who can continue the legacy of excellence. The goal will be to maintain the strong team dynamics and success of the program while also fostering new talent.

Bottom Line

Coach Kuna Nakagawa's resignation marks a pivotal moment for Reno High volleyball, emphasizing the challenge of succession in high school sports. His leadership and success will be difficult to replicate, making the upcoming transition critical for the program's future.