HANCOCK — Heather L’Esperance was named the head coach of Hancock Central High School’s varsity volleyball program.

“As the new head coach of the Hancock Central volleyball program, I am looking forward to coaching a hard working and competitive group of girls,” L’Esperance said. “Hancock Central High is a great place to be and I can’t wait to get back at it.”

L’Esperance takes over the program from Elle Heinonen, who coached the varsity team for one season. The Bulldogs lost to Calumet in last year’s Division 3 District 65 semifinals.

L’Esperance was the junior varsity volleyball coach last season. She also coached travel volleyball for three years, including the Top Gun VBC Elite program in Howell. She also coached UP Power alongside Finlandia women’s volleyball coach Brian Lamppa.

L’Esperance played six years in a competitive league with the Top Gun program before coaching.

L’Esperance has strong athletic ties to the Copper Country area. Her older brothers Alan and Joel both played hockey at Michigan Tech. Her sister Kirsten recently finished her soccer career at Finlandia.