skip navigation

From Player to Leader: Commissioner Cranswick’s Decades of Dedication to Volleyball Excellence

By Az Volleyball Mom, 01/28/25, 10:15AM MST

Share

Harold Cranswick’s lifelong commitment to volleyball—as a coach, player, referee, and leader—has significantly impacted the sport in Arizona.

Harold Cranswick’s lifelong dedication to volleyball, spanning coaching, playing, officiating, and leadership roles, has profoundly shaped the sport in Arizona and beyond.

Harold Cranswick: A Volleyball Legend in Arizona

Harold Cranswick’s journey in volleyball is a remarkable story of passion, dedication, and impact. From humble beginnings in Miami, Arizona, to a lifetime of achievements on the court and in leadership roles, Harold’s contributions have shaped the volleyball community across the state and beyond.

The Beginning of a Volleyball Career

Harold discovered his love for volleyball during grad school at Arizona State University, where he took volleyball PE classes and played with local enthusiasts. His competitive journey began with the USVBA, competing in Nationals and building lifelong connections with fellow players and mentors.

Coaching Achievements

Harold’s coaching career spans decades, marked by his ability to develop players and grow teams:

  • Mesa Community College (1996–1997): Assistant Coach
  • Seton Catholic High School (1992–1995): Junior Varsity Coach
  • Club Red Junior Olympic Volleyball Club (1993–1998): Coached multiple age groups, including 16s, 14s, and 12s
  • NAU Men’s Volleyball Club (1987–1989): Head Coach, where he played a pivotal role in leading the team to USVBA tournaments

Playing the Game

A versatile player, Harold competed in numerous high-profile events:

  • Setter for the NAU Men’s Volleyball Club, including the Collegiate Club National Championships at UC Davis (1982–1989)
  • Competitor at USVBA Nationals in Reno, NV (1993), and Tucson, AZ (1998)
  • Played setter, middle blocker, and outside hitter for the ASU Men’s Volleyball Club (1976–1982)
  • Competed in YMCA Nationals at Indiana University (1985)

Excellence in Officiating

Harold’s skills extended to officiating, where he earned prestigious credentials:

  • National Scorekeeper for the US Open National Championships (1995–1996)
  • National Outdoor Referee at US Beach Championships (1996–1997)
  • Officiated events like the Fiesta Bowl Classic and Police Olympics, alongside numerous collegiate and outdoor tournaments

Leadership and Legacy

Harold’s influence on the volleyball community goes beyond the court. In 1997, he was named Commissioner of the Arizona Region of USA Volleyball, a role he continues to serve in today. His leadership positions include:

  • USA Volleyball Board of Directors (2006–2008)
  • Secretary and Director roles on the Cactus Region Board of Directors (1989–1997)
  • Commissioner of the Arizona Region, overseeing countless tournaments, initiatives, and the growth of volleyball across the state

Recognition and Impact

Throughout his career, Harold has worn many hats—coach, player, referee, and administrator—all while embodying the spirit of volleyball. His efforts have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Doc Booth Award, presented by his fellow commissioners during Nationals in Phoenix.

A Lasting Legacy

Harold Cranswick’s volleyball journey is an inspiration to players, coaches, and administrators alike. His ability to adapt, lead, and contribute at every level of the game has left an indelible mark on the sport in Arizona. Whether on the court, in the classroom, or at the boardroom table, Harold’s legacy continues to uplift and inspire the volleyball community.

Thank you, Harold, for your unwavering dedication to the game and for being a true champion of volleyball in Arizona.