Alexis Nikirk
I grew up in Pine Bluffs, WY. My husband and I moved to Sheridan in 2006 when my husband got a promotion through the Wyoming Game and Fish. I have been an elementary teacher for 20 years and have coached volleyball, basketball, track, and cross country for all ages. I have 3 kids who keep me busying playing hockey and volleyball. We love to be outdoors hunting and fishing.
Volleyball Experience
• Coach Alexis played volleyball from elementary to high school.
• She could have gone on to play in college, but she blew her knee out not just once, but twice!
• She loves playing all sports and tells us she has a very competitive side on and off the court.
• She was a State Champion shot put and discus thrower. She still holds the school record in Pine Bluffs for girls shot put!
Why do I coach?
“I had such great coaches growing up and they were a perfect blend of kindness, compassion, and competitiveness and it helped me love all the sports I played and I hope to encourage those same traits on my athletes.”
What do I look forward to teaching my team?
“I look forward to teaching my players confidence on and off the court and learning how to be amazing human beings along the way.”
Why the philosophy of coaching "person first, athlete second" is important to me:
“Person first, athlete second” resonates deeply with me—both as someone who grew up as an athlete and as a parent raising three highly competitive athletes. Today’s kids face far more noise, stress, and distractions than I ever did. Because of that, I believe it’s crucial to build real, meaningful connections with athletes beyond their performance or statistics.
To me, this phrase means recognizing that who they are matters more than how they play. It’s about checking in on their mental, emotional, and social well-being, not just their skills, effort, or scores. When an athlete isn’t in a good place off the court, they’re going to struggle on it. Supporting them as whole people—helping them learn to cope, grow, problem-solve, and navigate life’s tough moments—ultimately makes them better athletes and stronger individuals.”
Other Tidbits
“My first car was a 66' Mustang that I blew the engine in it twice and I have a serious addiction to coffee and Dt. Coke.”