Indy Ignite, the city’s professional volleyball franchise, has officially begun its search for a new head coach following George Padjen’s resignation.
Padjen, who guided the Ignite to a runner-up finish in the 2025 PVF Championship, resigned in May. He cited a desire to spend more time with his family.
“It’s been an unforgettable inaugural season with the Indy Ignite, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a special community here in Fishers and Indianapolis,” Padjen said. “While I have loved coaching in Indy, it’s time for me to spend more time with my family.”
His leadership proved pivotal during the team’s debut season.
Under his direction, the Ignite built a competitive roster and emerged as a top contender in the league, ultimately finishing second to the Orlando Valkyries in the championship match.
Indy Ignite President and General Manager Mary Kay Huse appreciates Padjen’s contributions during the franchise’s first year.
“I appreciate George for his contributions to this organization in our inaugural season,” Huse said. “We are grateful for his leadership in helping to recruit a fantastic roster and taking us to the PVF Championship in year one. We wish him all the best moving forward.”
The organization confirmed that the process of finding Padjen’s successor is underway.
Huse will lead the hiring effort alongside the team’s ownership group, players and remaining coaching staff.
“We are committed to building a program that produces long-term, sustainable success for our players, our fans and our city,” Huse said. “We take this commitment seriously as we begin our search for a new head coach.”
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on TikTok @HorsemenSportsMedia. For more Indy Ignite new head coach news, click here.
Noral Parham is the multi-media & senior sports reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder, one of the oldest Black publications in the country. Parham has worked with various leagues to provide a diverse perspective in sports, including the Big Ten, Big East, IHSAA, IndyCar, MLB, NHRA, NFL, NBA, WNBA, WWE and the Olympics. Prior to joining the Recorder, Parham served as the community advocate of the MLK Center in Indianapolis and senior copywriter for an e-commerce and marketing firm in Denver.
