Michele & Josh Ivans Share Their SonShine Volleyball Mission on the Good Neighbor Hour

Michele and Josh Ivans joined Rollie on the Good Neighbor Hour on Monday, Dec. 1, on 730 Goodland’s Gold KLOE to talk about who they are, their passion for volleyball, and the mission behind the SonShine Volleyball Club in Goodland. What followed was a fun, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation about faith, family, community, and the power of sports to connect young people.

A Journey Rooted in Faith and Family

The Ivans’ story begins long before their current work in Goodland. In 2014, their daughter Avelyn passed away at just 16 days old due to a heart condition. Wanting to honor her life in a meaningful and lasting way, they launched Avelyn’s SonShine Journey—a ministry that gives away children’s Bibles across the country. Over the years, they’ve distributed between 13,000 and 14,000 Bibles, with even more on the way.

“When we feel led to do it, we just try to listen to the Spirit and hand them out,” Josh said. “We want to impact lives in a positive and lasting way.”

Their love for Christ and their love for volleyball eventually merged, forming the foundation of SonShine Athletic Academy, a faith-based organization that provides volleyball clinics, camps, and now a growing club program for kids in Northwest Kansas.

Volleyball Experience That Runs Deep

Both Michele and Josh have extensive volleyball backgrounds.

Josh grew up immersed in the sport, playing in California, competing on highly ranked club teams, and earning an NAIA national championship at Graceland University. His coaching journey has taken him to Wichita State, Oklahoma, LSU, Barton County Community College, and several high-school and club programs.

Michele’s volleyball path began in Wichita club ball before playing four years at Wichita State. Together, they’ve coached countless camps, clinics, and teams—always with the goal of developing skills while sharing the love of Jesus.

“We want kids to grow in confidence, grow in their abilities, and know that they’re loved by Jesus,” Josh said. “That’s our mission.”

Building SonShine Volleyball Club in Goodland

The Ivans moved to Goodland in 2020—right in the middle of COVID-19. With clubs in surrounding towns uncertain due to the pandemic, Josh and Michele decided to start something new for area athletes.

What began as small clinics quickly grew. A Facebook page drew over 100 interested families in just days. By 2021, SonShine Volleyball Club officially launched.

The club now includes girls from Goodland, Colby, Oakley, Atwood, St. Francis, Sharon Springs, and beyond. Last season, 39 athletes participated across three traveling teams and additional practice-only players.

A major reason for the club’s success is the support of coaches and community members like Marty Lehman, who ensures gym availability at the Max Jones Fieldhouse and auxiliary gym.

“Marty will do anything to help kids in this community have opportunities,” Josh said. “We wouldn’t be able to do this without him.”

Competition With Purpose

While the club is competitive—it traveled to multiple tournaments in Denver last year—the Ivans are clear about their mission:

• Build confidence

• Develop volleyball skills

• Create a joyful team experience

• Share the message of Jesus

“You don’t have to be a Christian to join the club,” Michele said. “But we do talk about Jesus every week. Families know that from the beginning.”

Tryouts This Sunday

SonShine Volleyball Club will hold tryouts Sunday, December 7 at the Goodland Auxiliary Gym from 4–6 p.m. MT.

Tryouts are open to girls in grades 7–12, including players from surrounding communities Registration paperwork begins around 3:40 p.m., and families should enter through the south doors.

Younger athletes can participate in SonShine’s popular summer volleyball camps, which include faith-based instruction and sessions for grades 3–12.

How to Learn More

Families interested in the club, camps, or Bibles can reach out:

📱 Text Josh at 913-209-2172

🌐 Website: letyourlight-shine.com

📘 Facebook: SonShine Athletic Academy / SonShine Volleyball Club