LAKEWOOD – Tasha Kryger coached for 27 years before calling it quits.

So what is she doing this summer? Coaching volleyball.

The Lakewood High School volleyball and track coach hung up her sneakers and cleats because she wanted more time to herself and to her family. She still will teach at Lakewood Middle School.

But since she hasn’t been replaced yet, she’s still coaching the youth volleyball camp that has been going on at LHS for about eight years now.

About 31 participants, including two boys, ages 8-14 are part of the city of Marysville’s camp this week. LHS hosts it as a fund-raiser for the team, so many Cougar players are helping out, including three seniors who recently graduated.

Kryger said it’s a great camp for young players because they get almost 1-on-1 attention. Players come from all over: Marysville, Arlington, Lakewood, Tulalip and even Stanwood.

Kryger said the week is not only good for the campers, but the player-coaches, too.

“They re-learn (the fundamentals) by teaching them, and they get practice,” their former coach said. “It helps reinforce the thought process on what to do by teaching someone else.”

Jelly Perry, a senior outside hitter, is helping for her fourth year. “I love working with kids,” she said, adding it’s made her a better leader and teammate.

Marcus, 9, and Connor, 7, Gaffney are the only boys at camp. Kryger said there have been boys in the past, but they didn’t make it through the entire week “because of all the girls.”

Other sports camps

Track: Ages 7-14, July 10-13, 9 a.m. to noon. $95, Lakewood High School

Basketball: Ages 7-14, July 17-20, 9 a.m. to noon, $95, Cedarcrest Middle School. FIT Games Camp: Ages 8-12. $89. 1-3 p.m. July 17-21, Rotary Ranch at Jennings Park.

For details, contact Marysville’s recreation department at For details contact city recreation at 360-363-8400.