Taneisha Cantave
Director /Founder
Taneisha Cantave or “Coach T” is the Director of PRIDE Volleyball Club. Taneisha brings a wealth of coaching experience, having previously served as the Girls Volleyball Coach at Albertus Magnus High School and Woodlands High School, where she was nominated for Section One Coach of the Year. She was the Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Mercy College from 2012-2013 before leaving to start a family. She also served as the Head Women’s Volleyball Coach at Westchester Community College. During her career, she has served as an assistant at Nyack College, Sacred Heart University, and at Our Holy Child Private Girls School. With over 20 years’ experience she is the Founder and Director of the Westchester Pride Volleyball Club running out of Westchester and Rockland Counties.
A two-sport student-athlete at Sacred Heart University and Suffern high school in volleyball and track and field, Coach T has garnered All-Conference, All-County, All-League, All-State and All-America awards, as well as being named the Journal News athlete of the year and participating on the Junior Olympic team (RVC). Coach T was inducted into the Track and Field Rockland County Hall of fame in 2015. She was also a standout jumper and track athlete for Suffern High School. Coach T is also a member of the Suffern High School Sports Hall of Fame.
“I can not wait to share my love and passion for the game with the incoming players and help them push towards a championship. With the help of determined, knowledgeable and inspirational assistant coaches, I hope to make this season one to remember. As time passes, I hope to grow into one of the top teams in this region”.
Taneisha graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in social work and is pursuing her masters in counseling. Cantave is CPR and First Aid Certified, Impact Certified, Safe Sport Certified, a member of USA Volleyball, Member of AAU Volleyball. AAU Track and Field and has VB and Track and Field coaching license (s). She resides in New City, N.Y With her husband Joe Payton and she has three beautiful daughters, Gabriella, Ava, and Amaya Payton. Coach T has been a Program Supervisor at the Mental Health Association of Rockland in Valley Cottage, N.Y. since 2009.
Steven Bastar
Assistant Director
Coach Steve is more than just a coach — he’s a father, mentor, leader, and one of the most passionate advocates for his athletes. For the past five years, he has served as Assistant Director, all while continuing to coach, referee, and lead with unmatched energy and dedication. With 18 years of coaching experience at both the high school and college levels, and 13 years proudly serving the Pride organization, Coach Steve has become a cornerstone of the program. Whether he’s developing other coaches, running athlete training sessions, officiating games, or guiding his team on the court, his ability to juggle multiple roles makes him the undisputed king of multitasking.
One of his most well-known mantras is:
“We ARE that team. Feel good, play good.”
It’s a reflection of the confidence and unity he builds within his players — inspiring them to bring their best every time they step on the court.
A multiple-time recipient of the Coaches Award, Coach Steve’s impact goes far beyond titles or wins. He’s a true champion of the athletes, cheering them on through every challenge and triumph. Regardless of the role he holds each season, Coach Steve is — and always will be — an essential part of the Pride family.
Experience at a glance:
- 18 years coaching at the high school and college level
- 13 years coaching with Pride
- 5 years as a certified high school and college referee
- 5 years as Pride’s Assistant Director
Leano Monsanto
Coach Support & Development Coordinator/Head Coach – Westchester
Leano Monsanto is a passionate volleyball coach with over 8 years of experience, including 4 years dedicated specifically to volleyball. He currently serves as the JV girls volleyball coach at Irvington High School, where his team celebrated an undefeated season just one year ago. Leano has coached athletes at all levels—from elementary to high school—and served as an assistant coach for women’s volleyball and basketball at Westchester Community College. Off the court, he works as a special education teacher in the South Bronx, teaching Kindergarten through 2nd grade.
What drives Coach Leano is helping players learn, grow, and enjoy the sport. He thrives in the developmental stages, where athletes experience their biggest “aha” moments and build lasting confidence. His supportive, player-first approach not only inspires athletes but also fellow coaches, as he continues to share his knowledge and passion with the broader coaching community. Coach Leano is excited for another season of growth, teamwork, and love for the game.
Jenna Banta
Rockland County Coordinator/Head Coach – Rockland
Coach Jenna is a volleyball coach with over 25 years of experience, passionate about coaching and player development, and has been part of the Pride organization since 2018. Coach Jenna focuses on enhancing players’ technical skills, strategic thinking, teamwork, discipline, and love for the game, aiming to build confidence and prepare young athletes for competitive volleyball. Additionally, Coach Jenna is a parent to a child who shares a love for volleyball and assists with the team. She also lives proudly with Type 1 Diabetes and is a strong advocate for the Disability.
Keisha Cantave
Hotel & Logistics Coordinator