Falcon Flashback | Cindy Smith Strickland
Athletic Hall of Fame Spotlight
When Cindy Smith Strickland walked into the O’Neal gym in August 1984 for her first volleyball practice, she had one senior, one junior, and a handful of freshmen ready to learn. What began as a small group of eager athletes turned into a dynasty that would define O’Neal volleyball for decades.
Building a Legacy
After earning a degree in Health & Physical Education with a minor in Science from Elon University, Cindy was hired by Headmaster Bob Haarlow to teach P.E. and coach girls’ sports at O’Neal. In the fall of 1984, she began coaching varsity and middle school volleyball—a role she held until 2000. She also coached girls’ middle school basketball and a couple of years of varsity softball before softball was replaced by girls’ soccer.
In her first season, Strickland led the Falcons to a conference championship and their first-ever appearance in the NCISAA State Tournament. That was just the beginning. From 1984 onward, O’Neal volleyball dominated the conference for 15 straight years. Between 1989 and 2000, her teams captured nine NCISAA State Championship titles, cementing O’Neal’s reputation as a powerhouse in North Carolina volleyball.
The Strickland Philosophy
For Cindy, success was about more than winning. “Work hard at practices, attend volleyball camps in the summer if possible, and you will be rewarded! Also enjoy your sport and have FUN!” she says. Her approach emphasized teamwork, skill development, and joy in the game. Volleyball, she believed, was the ultimate team sport—every play requiring trust and connection.
Her influence extended beyond the varsity court. As a physical education teacher and coach for middle school, JV, and varsity teams, Cindy worked with players for up to eight years, shaping not only their athletic ability but their character.
A Community Effort
Strickland credits O’Neal’s supportive community—parents, faculty, and administration—for the program’s success. She recalls the excitement of the first state tournament when Bob Haarlow arranged for a busload of students to cheer the team on in Raleigh. “I knew then that The O’Neal School was truly something special,” she says.
A Lasting Impact
O’Neal encouraged Cindy to attend coaching clinics, which she did, further sharpening her skills and strategies. Her leadership and love for the game created a culture of excellence that continues to inspire O’Neal athletes today. Her induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame honors not just her victories but her dedication to building a program rooted in teamwork, perseverance, and joy.
Join us on Friday, January 9th, as we recognize Cindy and 9 other Inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees! 3:15 pm reception | Recognition at half-time of the boys basketball game - starting at 7 pm.
Read More Falcon Flashbacks
Join us on Friday, January 9th, as we recognize Cindy and 9 other Inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees! 3:15 pm reception | Recognition at half-time of the boys basketball game - starting at 7 pm.
Read More Falcon Flashbacks
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