Categories: College University Athletics

UCF Hires New Head Volleyball Coach for 2025 Season

UCF Volleyball team showcasing their skills in a thrilling match.

News Summary

The University of Central Florida (UCF) has appointed Matt Botsford as the new head coach of the women’s volleyball team, effective 2025. Botsford comes with a successful track record from Florida Gulf Coast University, where he led his teams to significant achievements including 11 ASUN championships and multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. As UCF’s volleyball program seeks to turn around after a challenging previous season, there is a renewed optimism among fans and players alike. Botsford’s extensive coaching experience and commitment to developing talent position him well to elevate UCF volleyball to new heights.

UCF Welcomes New Head Volleyball Coach Matt Botsford

Orlando, Florida – Exciting news is in the air for UCF’s athletics department as they have announced the hiring of Matt Botsford as the new head coach of the women’s volleyball team, starting in 2025. The announcement was made on December 21, 2024, and fans are buzzing with anticipation for what this new chapter will bring.

A Proven Track Record

Botsford comes to UCF with an impressive coaching resume, having spent the last 11 seasons at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). During his tenure there, he amassed a remarkable record of 263 wins and just 78 losses. What’s more, last year alone, his FGCU team posted a stunning 27-5 record, securing both the ASUN regular-season championship and the conference tournament. His leadership was pivotal in seeing FGCU make five exhilarating NCAA Tournament appearances.

With a rich history of achievements, Botsford didn’t stop there. His teams snatched up an astonishing total of 11 ASUN championships, which included six regular-season titles and five tournament trophies. This stellar performance ranks him as the ninth highest among active Division I head coaches in the NCAA for career winning percentage. Isn’t that impressive?

A Coach with Global Experience

Botsford’s journey in coaching began all the way back in 1998 when he took on volleyball programs at Tri-State University. His experience is not limited to just one university; he has also served as an assistant coach at powerhouses like Notre Dame and Colorado State University. Additionally, he coached at the club level in Sweden, where he guided Lindesberg Volley to its very first league title. Talk about a well-rounded coach!

His players have flourished under his guidance. Many have earned prestigious honors including All-American accolades and the coveted ASUN Player of the Year awards. It’s clear that he knows how to develop talent!

Turning the Program Around

Last season was a challenging one for UCF’s volleyball team under former coach Jenny Maurer, finishing with a 9-18 record. However, with Botsford at the helm, there’s a strong sense of optimism that the tides are about to change. He has expressed great enthusiasm about this new role, assuring fans of his faith in UCF’s athletic department and its supportive academic environment.

High Hopes for the Future

The UCF volleyball program boasts a significant history, with 12 NCAA Tournament appearances over the years. The hopes are high that under Botsford’s leadership, it will ascend to new heights. As UCF’s Director of Athletics, Terry Mohajir, pointed out, Botsford has the potential to elevate this program, promising a thrilling future for both players and fans alike.

A Heartfelt Background

On a personal note, Botsford holds a degree in social studies education with a minor in general science, along with a master’s in business administration. He is not just a coach; he’s also a family man, married to Lindsey and the proud father of two children, Harper and Cache. Family values, education, and sportsmanship are bound to resonate through his coaching style.

As UCF prepares for this new chapter in their volleyball saga with Matt Botsford at the forefront, the community eagerly awaits the thrill of a revitalized program under his capable leadership. The countdown to 2025 has officially begun, and it’s shaping up to be an exhilarating journey!