Meadowview Christian School’s volleyball team made a successful return to the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA).

Lady Trojans coach Tim Burton is a big reason why. Burton is The Selma Times-Journal’s volleyball coach of the year.

Burton guided MCS to the Elite 8 Volleyball Tournament. MCS finished the season with a 16-3 record, but the Lady Trojans won all 10 of their games in Class 1A, Region 2. MCS finished tied for fifth place.

Burton said he’s surprised by the honor.

“I feel so honored to get this award,” Burton said. “It means a lot to have someone think that way of me. It never dawned on me that I’d be considered for coach of the year.  I coached sports because all three of my daughters played.”

Until 2017, MCS competed in the Alabama Christian Athletic Association (ACAA) before moving into the AISA.

“We got out of AISA four years ago and the reason we came back to AISA because of football,” Burton said.

Burton said he’s not stunned that MCS made a smooth transition back into AISA.

“We usually did pretty good in volleyball in the AISA,” Burton said. “It’s a better move for the school. I’ll play whoever’s in front of me.

“The caliber of play in the AISA is stronger than the ACAA,” Burton continued. “The AISA’s more powerful conference. Being able to compete in the AISA is a big deal. It was impressive and shows the girls they can compete with anybody.”

Burton said the Elite 8 appearance showed MCS things needed to do in order to capture state championships.

“We saw the teams that we have to beat and what it will take to beat those teams,” Burton said.

Burton has enjoyed coaching all three of his daughters at MCS: Kasey (30 years old), Jessica (27 years old) and currently Regan, 16.

Burton said he enjoys the role as coach.

“I’ve been coaching some type of athlete for over 20 years, I love teaching girls how to play sports,” Burton said.