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People SearchFind an individual who either played a sport or was a member of a support group. Search by last name by clicking on the first letter of the person's last name.
Mrs. Julie Dawson , née Wilson
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Home Phone: 337-406-2782 Former Volleyball: Dawson eager to win at ESA Bruce Brown • bbrown@theadvertiser.com • August 31, 2010 CADE — Julie Dawson grew accustomed to winning during 12 years as volleyball coach at St. Thomas More. Don’t be surprised if that pattern continues at tradition-rich Episcopal School of Acadiana. Dawson’s first campaign at the ESA helm begins today when the Falcons visit Comeaux, with freshmen in action at 4 p.m. followed by junior varsity and varsity. “It’s been an easy fit for me,” Dawson said. “The connection has been really good, philosophy-wise and with me personally. The girls and the parents have been very welcoming. That has made it easier for me. “I see a commitment level from the players and the coaching staff. There’s a sense of unity to have continued success, personally as well as for the team.” Any new coach needs a transition period, and for Dawson and ESA the summer has been crucial. “Summer is our preseason,” she said. “That’s when we get in shape physically and in volleyball skills. I got a lot of work done with them in the weight room and on the court. That gives you a jump start, before academics (begin). “We have so many students who travel for academic purposes and family vacations, I was able to work with them in small groups and 1-on-1. I didn’t see the whole team until August, but I developed that relationship of coach-player trust. That’s very strong over here.” The Falcons are led by a senior class that has helped to make a smooth transition for their new leader. “The senior class is definitely the glue right now,” Dawson said. “They’ve all gone above and beyond the call of duty, going into their senior year facing change with a positive attitude. They’re leading by example, and that has allowed some of the younger players to step up. “We have two freshmen who are playing phenomenally right now, because they’re relaxed on the court. We have a unique experience here in that we have players who can contribute on the varsity from every class. We’re not just senior-dominated. “Their knowledge of the game is so deep. They’re a step ahead of their opponent. They’re able to read the ball and put it on auto pilot. They have the same passion for the game I have.” ESA’s seniors have extra drive to excel since they have yet to taste a state title, something the school has achieved 17 times. “They have not been part of a state champion, and when they leave they want to say they’ve done everything possible,” Dawson said. “They want to leave with their name on the (championship) board. They’ve got that internal drive, that fire that I don’t have to put there. It’s like a well-oiled machine. The program spins and builds, year after year.” Dawson is ready to be the next leader of that success. “I feel very empowered here to do my job at a high level,” she said. “My success at STM has given me confidence to share in the experience of the ESA program, and I don’t take it for granted.” * * * * * * * * * * Volleyball: Dawson leaves Lady Cougars for ESA job – Madden moves to Parkview Baptist in Baton Rouge Kevin Foote • kfoote@theadvertiser.com • April 15, 2010 When Becky Madden left ESA to accept new positions as dean of students and volleyball coach at Parkview Baptist in Baton Rouge, ESA athletic director Mike Bourgeois knew he had a big decision on his hands. At some schools, the head volleyball coach is important, but not critical. At ESA it’s been the No. 1 sport for over two decades. Since the program began in 1979, ESA volleyball has only had three head coaches, and two of them are in the LHSAA Hall of Fame. The trio has combined for 17 state championships. So Bourgeois was more than just a bit relieved when he learned that longtime St. Thomas More coach Julie Dawson was a candidate for the job. He was downright elated when Dawson accepted the position to be ESA’s volleyball coach. “We’re ecstatic,” Bourgeois said. “The volleyball coach is the most high-profile coach at our school. This was a very important hire. Several of the people we talked to about the job talked about the pressure of working at ESA. I feel like it’s a laid-back environment here, but I’d have to admit that I did feel some pressure when it came to replacing the volleyball coach. “At ESA, that person has to be an amazing teacher and an amazing coach. Julie is both of those.” During Dawson’s career at STM, she accumulated a 340-123 overall record, including an incredible 117-1 district record. The Lady Cougars reached the Division II (4A) state finals in 1998 and 2002 and were 4A semifinalists in 1999 and 2003. “Leaving STM is really bittersweet for me as my tenure here has given me great hands-on experience that has prepared me for this next challenge in my career,” Dawson said. “STM has made me the teacher, coach and person that I am today. I leave here with a heavy heart and fond memories.” Since the move to 5A or Division I, STM made the quarterfinals in 2007 and 2008. As a player, Dawson was an All-State selection in Indiana, a second team NJCAA All-American at Southwestern Michigan College and played at UL from 1990-92. “I am at the point in my career where I felt like I was ready for a change,” Dawson said. “I believe ESA will offer me the opportunity to continue to grow and flourish both professionally and personally. I look forward to being a part of a program that is steeped in tradition with 17 state championships.” Dawson said ESA and STM will continue its longtime rivalry. “It will be different to be on the other side of the net to say the least,” she said. “Strange is a better word. But I know this STM volleyball program will continue with its great success. The junior class will become strong, positive senior leaders both on and off court next year.”
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