Santiago La Jara was appointed as Graduate Assistant for King University Men’s Volleyball in 2026, bringing an impressive background as an NCAA Division I athlete, experienced coach, and skilled event coordinator to the Tornado program. La Jara’s unique blend of playing, coaching, and administrative experience, complemented by international exposure and bilingual fluency, positions him as a valuable asset to King University Men’s Volleyball.
In his role at King, La Jara assists with all aspects of the men’s volleyball program, including on-court coaching, practice planning, recruiting, and day-to-day operations. Drawing from his experience as a head coach at Loudoun Elite and Heritage High School, he specializes in developing players across various age groups and fostering a team-first culture. La Jara’s background in event management and operations—honed through roles in the FDU Athletic Department, as Campus Intramural Coordinator, and as an Operations Manager for men’s soccer—enhances his ability to manage logistics, support team organization, and create a positive environment for student-athletes.
As a player, La Jara competed as an NCAA Division I volleyball athlete and served as Associate Captain at Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), as well as representing the Peruvian National Team. His leadership on and off the court has been recognized through his involvement in team fundraising, apparel collaborations, and mentoring teammates.
La Jara’s additional skills in communications and marketing, developed through experiences with Electronic Sports Broadcasting and student engagement roles at FDU, further strengthen his impact in promoting King Volleyball and connecting with a diverse student body. He is fluent in English, Spanish, and has a working knowledge of Portuguese.
A recent graduate, La Jara earned both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Sport Administration from FDU, making the Dean’s and Honors List for both programs. His commitment, leadership, and global perspective make him a key contributor to the continued growth and success of King University Men’s Volleyball.
Last updated: 8/21/26
