Her Story
About Brenda
Brenda Mayes serves as Head Volleyball Coach and Assistant Athletic Director at Northeast Mississippi Community College in Booneville, Mississippi, where she provides leadership in women’s athletics and is dedicated to developing student-athletes through coaching, mentorship, and education. With more than 35 years of experience in athletics, Mayes has built a distinguished career focused on leadership, teamwork, and empowering athletes to achieve success both on and off the court. As the inaugural Head Volleyball Coach, she played an integral role in establishing the college’s volleyball program and creating a foundation built on excellence, commitment, and personal growth.
Mayes began her coaching career in 1987 after graduating from the University of North Alabama, where she was a collegiate basketball player. She started as a student assistant and graduate assistant before moving into a part-time and later full-time role with a city school system, where she coached volleyball, basketball, and softball for nearly three decades. In 2015, she returned to Northeast Mississippi Community College, her alma mater, to lead the women’s basketball program before transitioning to launch the volleyball program while serving as Assistant Athletic Director. Throughout her career, Mayes has remained committed to helping student-athletes grow as individuals by emphasizing discipline, confidence, leadership, and character development.
Mayes earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Arts degree in Physical Education and Coaching from the University of North Alabama, along with an Associate’s degree from Northeast Mississippi Community College. She is also a dedicated member and president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, reflecting her passion for service and leadership. Mayes attributes her success to the strong values instilled by her mother, the guidance of influential mentors, and the meaningful relationships she has developed with the student-athletes she has coached. Through her commitment to integrity, mentorship, and empowering others, she continues to make a lasting impact in collegiate athletics and the communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Brenda
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong foundation instilled in me by my mother, the guidance and mentorship of my high school coach, and the many individuals who have positively influenced my life along the way. I am also inspired by the student-athletes I have had the privilege of coaching and mentoring, as their growth and accomplishments continue to motivate me. Throughout my career, my goal has always been to help them become not only better athletes but also stronger, more confident individuals who are prepared for success beyond the playing field. I am grateful for the relationships I have built and the lasting impact we have made on each other’s lives.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the athletics industry to trust their instincts, believe in their abilities, and remain committed to pursuing their goals. Success requires dedication, preparation, and taking the necessary steps to continue growing both personally and professionally. It is important to surround yourself with positive, supportive people who encourage you, challenge you, and believe in your potential. Most importantly, do not allow anyone to convince you that your goals are beyond your reach. With confidence, determination, and perseverance, you can achieve the success you envision.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The greatest opportunities in athletics today come from embracing innovation, adapting to change, and continuing to develop new skills and approaches to leadership. Advances in technology, evolving training methods, and increased access to resources are creating new ways to support student-athletes and enhance their overall experience. I believe there is also a tremendous opportunity to build meaningful relationships, mentor the next generation of leaders, and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. By staying open to growth, encouraging innovation, and investing in the development of others, we can continue to strengthen the future of athletics and create a lasting positive impact.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I hold most important in my work and personal life are integrity, authenticity, empathy, professionalism, collaboration, and empowering others. I believe trust is built through honesty, consistency, and accountability, and I strive to reflect those principles in every decision I make. Whether I am coaching, leading, or building relationships, I focus on treating others with respect, listening with compassion, and creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed. I believe true success is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the positive impact we have on others. Through mentorship, sharing knowledge, and helping others recognize their potential, I hope to inspire growth and create opportunities for those around me.
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