Atlanta Vibe Hire Laura “Bird” Kuhn as Inaugural General Manager and Assistant Coach

The Atlanta Vibe are thrilled to announce the hiring of Laura “Bird” Kuhn as the team’s inaugural General Manager and Assistant Coach for the upcoming 2026 Major League Volleyball season. Kuhn brings a wealth of experience from both professional and collegiate volleyball, returning to Atlanta where her playing career took off with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (2001–2004).

Kuhn enters her third year in Major League Volleyball (MLV) following two standout seasons as Head Coach of the Omaha Supernovas. During her time with Omaha, she compiled a 37-15 overall record and guided the franchise to the league’s first-ever championship title. In 2025, she followed up with a regular-season crown, further establishing herself as one of the most respected leaders in the game.

“Bird is one of the most determined and magnetic leaders in the game,” said Atlanta Vibe owner Colleen Craig. “Her energy is contagious, her standards are unwavering, and she has a unique ability to inspire those around her — players and staff alike. She’s a proven winner and we are ecstatic to bring her passion, presence, and competitive fire to Atlanta as we continue to build something special.”

A standout during her collegiate playing days, Kuhn was a three-year starting right-side hitter at Georgia Tech. She helped guide the Yellow Jackets to four NCAA Tournament appearances, three ACC regular season titles, and the program’s first-ever Elite Eight run in 2003.

Before breaking through in the professional ranks, Kuhn carved out an accomplished collegiate coaching career. She served as head coach at Texas A&M from 2018–2022, leading the Aggies to a Sweet 16 berth in 2019. Prior to her time in College Station, she was instrumental in the rise of Kansas Volleyball, helping the Jayhawks to their first Final Four in 2015, a Big 12 championship in 2016, and earning AVCA National Assistant Coach of the Year honors. Kuhn also held assistant coaching roles at Miami and Appalachian State, contributing to NCAA Tournament success at every stop. Off the court, she earned her MBA from the University of Kansas, blending her competitive background with strong leadership and organizational expertise.

“I’m incredibly honored to join the Atlanta Vibe organization in the hybrid role they have created,” said Kuhn. “This city means so much to me personally. Now, professionally, I have this opportunity to grow and impact both this great community and the Vibe organization. I can’t wait to contribute to building something special here — both on the court and behind the scenes. The Vibe have already made a strong impression in this league, and I’m excited to help take us to the next level.”

Kuhn will partner with Head Coach Kayla Banwarth to shape the team’s competitive strategy, while also overseeing front office operations as General Manager. Her dual role reflects the Vibe’s commitment to championship standards on and off the court.

Welcome back to the A, Bird.