Noah Ray Chosen as Head Coach for Beyond Sports Japan Boys Volleyball Tour

EUREKA, Ill. – Eureka College men's volleyball head coach Noah Ray has been selected to serve as a High School Tour Head Coach for the Beyond Sports Japan Boys Volleyball Tour, scheduled for July 13-23 this summer.

Beyond Sports, an organization that has led international sports tours since 2010, brings together student-athletes and coaches from across the country for competitive play, leadership development, and cultural immersion abroad. Ray will be part of Beyond Sports' extensive network of tour coaches, helping guide high school student-athletes through a unique volleyball and travel experience in Japan.

"The opportunity to travel to Japan this summer with such a high-level group of boys from all over the country is extremely exciting," Ray said. "I am so honored for this opportunity and extremely grateful for Eureka to provide so many incredible experiences since I started working here. I feel so much gratitude to work with both volleyball programs here at Eureka. These athletes are a major factor in why I love this job so much. Getting to coach in Japan this summer is just another example of what makes Eureka so special."

As a High School Tour Coach, Ray's role will extend well beyond the court. He will be responsible for supervising and ensuring the safety of the group at all times, while also executing leadership curriculum throughout the tour. Ray will facilitate a minimum of two leadership development sessions, drawing from Beyond Sports' GLASS leadership curriculum and his own coaching experiences.

On the volleyball side, Ray will plan and coach all practices and exhibition competitions during the tour, emphasizing skill development, and competitive integrity. Beyond Sports prioritizes balanced participation, allowing every student-athlete to grow through meaningful on-court opportunities. Ray will also provide individualized feedback and coaching throughout practices and matches.

In addition, Ray will work closely with the Beyond Sports Tour Coordinator, co-coaches, and local tour leaders to ensure clear and consistent communication. He will help keep the group organized and on schedule for all activities, hotel departures, and sightseeing opportunities, while maintaining a positive, professional environment that fosters strong relationships with student-athletes and staff alike.