"We are thrilled to welcome Daniela to Franklin Pierce as our next head women's volleyball coach," said Johnson. "Daniela's passion for the game, her global volleyball perspective, and her commitment to academic and athletic excellence stood out throughout the hiring process. She brings a championship mentality and a track record of developing student-athletes on and off the court."  

Stake arrives in Rindge after serving on the staff at Hampton University, where she joined in 2024 under head coach Renaldo Pacheco. Prior to that, she spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Southern New Hampshire University, where she helped guide the Penmen to the NCA Division II Elite Eight in 2022 – the program's first appearance in school history – and an NCAA Championship First Round berth in 2023.  

"I'm honored to take on the role of head coach at Franklin Pierce" says Dani. "Coaching, to me, is about more than wins and losses, it's about building a culture where athletes grow in confidence, discipline, and character. I'm committed to developing players on the court, pushing them to compete with heart, grit, passion, and support each other like a true team. I'm excited to lead, to listen and to build something special here." 

A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Stake was a standout at BYU-Hawaii, leading the Seasiders to three NAIA National Championships. She was named NAIA Player of the Year in 1996 and earned first-team All-America honors in both 1993 and 1996. She remains the program's all-time leader in service aces and attacks, while ranking second in kills and digs.  

Following her playing career, Stake began coaching at the club level in both Germany and the U.S., leading her team to nationals in 2016. She transitioned to the collegiate level in 2021, bringing her international experience and winning pedigree to Southern New Hampshire and later Hampton.