In a significant change for USA volleyball, Erik Sullivan, former associate coach at the University of Texas, has been named the new head coach of the United States women’s national volleyball team.
Sullivan is no stranger to the game, having showcased his talent as an Olympic libero during the 2000 and 2004 Games. He takes over for iconic coach Karch Kiraly, who transitioned to the men’s team after an impressive tenure with the women’s team which started in September 2012.
“Karch Kiraly left an incredible legacy, and I am committed to continuing the work he accomplished with this amazing team,” Sullivan said in a recent press release. “My goal is to build on a strong foundation and create an environment where our athletes can fully develop while competing at the highest level. I look forward to working alongside this talented group as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”
At 52, Sullivan has a wealth of experience, having spent 14 successful years as an associate coach at Texas, where he played a crucial role in leading the Longhorns to three national championships. Prior to his time at Texas, he spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Nebraska, including the final season of Jordan Larson’s illustrious college career.
Larson, now 38, hinted in August that she might step away from national team responsibilities after representing the United States in four Olympic cycles.
Sullivan’s coaching resume is further enhanced by his leadership of the United States men’s team for the past three Olympics. Under his leadership, the United States women’s team has established a remarkable track record, winning medals in the last five editions of the Olympic Games. Notably, they obtained their first Olympic title in Tokyo in 2021, an achievement which remains the pinnacle in the history of their program.
This summer, all eyes will be on Thailand as the U.S. women prepare for the quadrennial world championship, marking another critical step in their volleyball journey.
