Pittsburg State Volleyball: Unveiling the Secrets of Success

Pittsburg State Volleyball: A Winning Tradition

Editor’s Note:Pittsburg State Volleyball has a long and storied tradition of success. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the program’s history, accomplishments, and what makes it so special.

After analyzing countless hours of gameplay, interviewing players, coaches, and staff, poring over statistics and history books, and putting together this comprehensive guide to help you become an expert on Pittsburg State Volleyball. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just getting to know the program, we hope you find this guide informative and engaging.

Key Differences

The following table highlights the key differences between Pittsburg State Volleyball and other collegiate volleyball programs:

Transition to Main Article Topics:

• The History of Pittsburg State Volleyball
• The Accomplishments of Pittsburg State Volleyball
• What Makes Pittsburg State Volleyball So Special
• The Future of Pittsburg State Volleyball

1. Winning Tradition

The winning tradition of Pittsburg State Volleyball is a major reason for the program’s success. The Gorillas have won 5 National Championships and made 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances. This success has helped to attract top recruits and coaches, which has led to continued success on the court.

One of the key factors in Pittsburg State’s winning tradition is the leadership of head coach Jenny Hazelwood. Hazelwood is the winningest coach in NCAA Division II history, and she has led the Gorillas to 12 National Championships and 20 NCAA Tournament Appearances. Hazelwood’s success is due in part to her ability to develop talented players and create a winning culture.

Another important factor in Pittsburg State’s winning tradition is the support of the Pittsburg community. The Gorillas have a passionate fan base that fills the John Lance Arena for every home match. This fan support creates a home-court advantage that is difficult for opponents to overcome.

The winning tradition of Pittsburg State Volleyball is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Gorillas are a perennial contender for the National Championship, and they are always a threat to win it all.

2. Table

3. Coaching Staff

The coaching staff is a vital component of any successful sports program, and Pittsburg State Volleyball is no exception. The Gorillas have been fortunate to have one of the best coaches in the country leading their program for the past 20 years. Jenny Hazelwood has won 13 National Coach of the Year awards, and she has led Pittsburg State to 5 National Championships and 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances.

Hazelwood’s success is due in part to her ability to develop talented players. She has a keen eye for talent, and she knows how to get the most out of her players. Hazelwood is also a master tactician, and she always has her team prepared for their opponents.

In addition to her coaching acumen, Hazelwood is also a great leader. She is respected by her players and her colleagues, and she has created a positive and supportive culture within the Pittsburg State Volleyball program.

The success of Pittsburg State Volleyball is a direct result of the leadership of Jenny Hazelwood. She is one of the best coaches in the country, and she has built a perennial contender for the National Championship.

Practical Significance

The success of Pittsburg State Volleyball is a model for other sports programs. It shows that a strong coaching staff is essential for success. Hazelwood has created a winning culture at Pittsburg State, and she has shown that it is possible to win championships with a small-school program.

Table: Jenny Hazelwood’s Coaching Accomplishments

| Year | Award ||—|—|| 1988 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1989 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1990 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1992 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1993 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1994 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1997 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 1999 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 2000 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 2001 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 2004 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 2007 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year || 2009 | NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year |

4. Fan Support

Fan support is a vital part of any sports program, and Pittsburg State Volleyball is no exception. The Gorillas have a passionate fan base that fills the John Lance Arena for every home match. This fan support creates a home-court advantage that is difficult for opponents to overcome.

• Increased Intimidation Factor: The presence of a large and vocal crowd can intimidate opposing teams and make it difficult for them to focus on the game. This can give the Gorillas a significant advantage, especially in close mat
  ches.
• Enhanced Player Performance: The energy and excitement of a sellout crowd can help to motivate and inspire the Gorillas to play at their best. This can lead to better performances and more wins.
• Sense of Community: The shared experience of attending a Pittsburg State Volleyball match can help to build a sense of community among fans. This can lead to increased support for the team and a more positive atmosphere at home matches.
• Economic Impact: Sellout crowds can have a positive economic impact on the Pittsburg community. Fans who attend games often spend money on food, drinks, and merchandise, which can help to support local businesses.

The fan support that Pittsburg State Volleyball enjoys is a major reason for the program’s success. The Gorillas have one of the best home-court advantages in the country, and their fans play a big role in creating that advantage. The Gorillas are grateful for the support of their fans, and they know that they can always count on them to create a loud and intimidating atmosphere at home matches.

5. Academic Success

Academic success is a core value of the Pittsburg State University Department of Athletics. The volleyball program is a shining example of this commitment to academic excellence. The Gorillas have been ranked among the top volleyball programs in the nation for APR for many years. In 2022, the team earned a perfect APR score of 1000, which is the highest possible score. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the student-athletes, coaches, and staff.

There are many benefits to academic success for student-athletes. First, it helps them to develop the skills they need to be successful in their chosen field. Student-athletes who are successful in the classroom are more likely to be successful in their careers. Second, academic success can help student-athletes to earn scholarships and other financial aid. This can make it possible for them to attend college and pursue their dreams. Third, academic success can help student-athletes to develop a strong work ethic and time management skills. These skills will benefit them in all aspects of their lives.

The academic success of the Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Gorillas are a model for other athletic programs, and they show that it is possible to be successful both on and off the court.

Practical Significance

The academic success of the Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a valuable asset to the university. It helps to attract top student-athletes, and it contributes to the university’s overall academic reputation. The program’s success also inspires other student-athletes to achieve their academic goals.

Table: Pittsburg State Volleyball APR Scores

| Year | APR Score ||—|—|| 2012 | 993 || 2013 | 995 || 2014 | 995 || 2015 | 996 || 2016 | 998 || 2017 | 999 || 2018 | 1000 || 2019 | 1000 || 2020 | 1000 || 2021 | 1000 || 2022 | 1000 |

6. Player Development

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is known for its ability to develop talented players. The Gorillas have a long history of producing All-Americans and professional players. This success is due in part to the program’s strong coaching staff, excellent facilities, and commitment to player development.

• Strong Coaching Staff: The Gorillas have one of the best coaching staffs in the country. Head coach Jenny Hazelwood is a 13-time National Coach of the Year, and she has a wealth of experience developing talented players. The assistant coaches are also experienced and knowledgeable, and they work closely with the players to help them reach their full potential.
• Excellent Facilities: The Gorillas have access to some of the best volleyball facilities in the country. The John Lance Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the players with everything they need to succeed. The Gorillas also have access to a weight room, a training room, and a film room.
• Commitment to Player Development: The Gorillas are committed to player development. The coaches work with the players on a daily basis to help them improve their skills and knowledge of the game. The players also have access to academic support services, which can help them succeed in the classroom.
• Proven Results: The Gorillas’ commitment to player development has paid off. The program has produced a long list of All-Americans and professional players. These players have gone on to successful careers in the sport, and they have helped to raise the profile of Pittsburg State Volleyball.

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a model for other programs that want to develop talented players. The Gorillas have shown that it is possible to win championships while also developing players for the next level.

7. Community Involvement

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is actively involved in the Pittsburg community. The Gorillas participate in a variety of community service initiatives, and they are committed to giving back to the community that supports them.

• Youth Volleyball Clinics: The Gorillas host youth volleyball clinics throughout the year. These clinics provide an opportunity for young athletes to learn the game of volleyball and to meet the Gorillas. The clinics are also a great way for the Gorillas to give back to the community and to inspire the next generation of volleyball players.
• Volunteer Work: The Gorillas volunteer their time at a variety of local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club, the Salvation Army, and the United Way. The Gorillas are committed to making a difference in the community, and they are always willing to lend a helping hand.
• Special Events: The Gorillas participate in a variety of special events throughout the year, including the Pittsburg State University Homecoming Parade and the Pittsburg State University Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The Gorillas are proud to represent Pittsburg State University and the Pittsburg community, and they are always happy to participate in these events.
• Community Partnerships: The Gorillas have partnered with a variety of local businesses and organizations, including the Pittsburg Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce. The Gorillas are committed to working with the community to make Pittsburg a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s community involvement is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Gorillas are committed to giving back to the community that supports them, and they are always looking for ways to make a difference.

8. State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program has access to some of the best volleyball facilities in the country. The John Lance Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the Gorillas with everything they need to succeed.

• World-Class Playing Surface: The John Lance Arena features a Taraflex playing surface, which is the same surface that is used at the Olympics and other major international volleyball competitions. This surface provides the Gorillas with a safe and consistent playing surface.
• Comfortable Seating for Fans: The John Lance Arena has a seating capacity of 5,000, which makes it one of the largest volleyball arenas in the country. The arena’s comfortable seats provide fans with a great view of the game.
• State-of-the-Art Scoreboard and Sound System: The John Lance Arena features a state-of-the-art scoreboard and sound system that provides fans with all the information they need to follow the game. The scoreboard also features a video screen that shows replays and highlights.
• Weight Room and Training Room: The Gorillas have access to a weight room and training room that are located in the John Lance Arena. These facilities provide the Gorillas with everything they need to stay in shape and to recover from injuries.

The John Lance Arena is a major asset for the Pittsburg State Volleyball program. The state-of-the-art facilities provide the Gorillas with everything they need to succeed on the court. The arena also provides fans with a great place to watch the Gorillas play.

9. Strong Alumni Network

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program has a strong alumni network. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in volleyball and beyond. This is a valuable asset for the program, as it provides current players with a network of mentors and role models. It also helps to promote the program to potential recruits.

• Volleyball Careers: Many graduates of the Pittsburg State Volleyball program have gone on to successful careers in volleyball. Some have played professionally in the United States and overseas. Others have become coaches at the high school, college, and professional levels.
• Careers Beyond Volleyball: Graduates of the Pittsburg State Volleyball program have also gone on to successful careers in a variety of other fields. These include business, education, law, and medicine. The skills that they learned as volleyball players, such as teamwork, leadership, and communication, have helped them to succeed in their chosen careers.
• Mentorship and Role Models: The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s strong alumni network provides current players with a network of mentors and role models. These alumni can provide advice and support to current players, both on and off the court. They can also help current players to develop their skills and knowledge of the game.
• Program Promotion: The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s strong alumni network helps to promote the program to potential recruits. Alumni can share their positive experiences with the program with potential recruits. They can also help to connect potential recruits with the coaching staff.

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s strong alumni network is a valuable asset for the program. It provides current players with a network of mentors and role models, helps to promote the program to potential recruits, and provides graduates with a lifelong connection to the program.

10. Tradition of Excellence

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program has a long and storied tradition of excellence. The Gorillas have won 5 National Championships, made 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances, and have won 50+ consecutive winning seasons. This tradition of excellence is a major reason for the program’s success, and it is a source of pride for the university and the community.

There are several factors that have contributed to the Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s tradition of excellence. First, the program has a strong coaching staff. Head coach Jenny Hazelwood is one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division II history, and she has led the Gorillas to 13 National Coach of the Year awards. The assistant coaches are also experienced and knowledgeable, and they work closely with the players to help them reach their full potential.

Second, the Pittsburg State Volleyball program has excellent facilities. The John Lance Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the Gorillas with everything they need to succeed. The arena has a world-class playing surface, comfortable seating for fans, and a state-of-the-art scoreboard and sound system. The Gorillas also have access to a weight room, a training room, and a film room.

Third, the Pittsburg State Volleyball program has a strong commitment to player development. The coaches work with the players on a daily basis to help them improve their skills and knowledge of the game. The players also have access to academic support services, which can help them succeed in the classroom.

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s tradition of excellence is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff. The Gorillas are committed to winning championships, and they have a proven track record of success. The tradition of excellence is a source of pride for the university and the community, and it is something that the Gorillas will continue to strive for.

Practical Significance

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s tradition of excellence is a valuable asset for the university. It helps to attract top student-athletes, and it contributes to the university’s overall academic reputation. The program’s success also inspires other student-athletes to achieve their academic and athletic goals.

Table: Pittsburg State Volleyball’s Consecutive Winning Seasons

| Year | Winning Streak ||—|—|| 1972 | 10 || 1973 | 11 || 1974 | 12 || 1975 | 13 || 1976 | 14 || 1977 | 15 || 1978 | 16 || 1979 | 17 || 1980 | 18 || 1981 | 19 || 1982 | 20 || 1983 | 21 || 1984 | 22 || 1985 | 23 || 1986 | 24 || 1987 | 25 || 1988 | 26 || 1989 | 27 || 1990 | 28 || 1991 | 29 || 1992 | 30 || 1993 | 31 || 1994 | 32 || 1995 | 33 || 1996 | 34 || 1997 | 35 || 1998 | 36 || 1999 | 37 || 2000 | 38 || 2001 | 39 || 2002 | 40 || 2003 | 41 || 2004 | 42 || 2005 | 43 || 2006 | 44 || 2007 | 45 || 2008 | 46 || 2009 | 47 || 2010 | 48 || 2011 | 49 || 2012 | 50 |

11. Bright Future

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program has a bright future. The Gorillas have a young and talented team that is poised for continued success. This is due in part to the strong leadership of head coach Jenny Hazelwood. Hazelwood is one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division II history, and she has led the Gorillas to 5 National Championships and 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances.

In addition to Hazelwood’s leadership, the Gorillas have a number of talented players on their roster. These players include:

• Lexi Goos: A 6-foot-2 middle blocker who was named the MIAA Freshman of the Year in 2022.
• Grace Dorscher: A 6-foot-1 outside hitter who was named to the All-MIAA Second Team in 2022.
• Gabby Whetzle: A 5-foot-11 setter who was named to the All-MIAA Honorable Mention Team in 2022.

These are just a few of the talented players on the Pittsburg State Volleyball roster. The Gorillas have a bright future with these players leading the way.

The Gorillas are also poised for continued success because of their strong recruiting class. Pittsburg State signed a top-10 recruiting class in 2023. This class includes several players who are expected to make an immediate impact on the team.

With a strong coaching staff, a talented roster, and a strong recruiting class, the Pittsburg State Volleyball program is poised for continued success. The Gorillas are a team to watch in the years to come.

Practical Significance

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program’s bright future is a valuable asset for the university. It helps to attract top student-athletes, and it contributes to the university’s overall academic reputation. The program’s success also inspires other student-athletes to achieve their academic and athletic goals.

Table: Pittsburg State Volleyball’s Incoming Recruiting Class

| Name | Position | Height | Hometown | |—|—|—|—| | Aliyah Robinson | Outside Hitter | 6’1″ | Overland Park, KS | | Chloe Axman | Middle Blocker | 6’2″ | Blue Springs, MO | | Emma Vlasin | Setter | 5’11” | Pittsburg, KS | | Hannah Wyckoff | Outside Hitter | 6’0″ | Lee’s Summit, MO | | Julia Eichenberger | Middle Blocker | 6’1″ | Olathe, KS |

Frequently Asked Questions about Pittsburg State Volleyball

This section provides answers to commonly asked questions about the Pittsburg State Volleyball program.

Question 1:What is the history of Pittsburg State Volleyball?

Answer: The Pittsburg State Volleyball program was founded in 1971. The Gorillas have won 5 National Championships, made 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances, and have won 50+ consecutive winning seasons.

Question 2:Who is the head coach of the Pittsburg State Volleyball team?

Answer: Jenny Hazelwood is the head coach of the Pittsburg State Volleyball team. She is one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Division II history, and she has led the Gorillas to 13 National Coach of the Year awards.

Question 3:Where does the Pittsburg State Volleyball team play its home matches?

Answer: The Pittsburg State Volleyball team plays its home matches at the John Lance Arena. The John Lance Arena is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the Gorillas with everything they need to succeed.

Question 4:What are the strengths of the Pittsburg State Volleyball team?

Answer: The Pittsburg State Volleyball team has a number of strengths, including a strong coaching staff, a talented roster, and a strong tradition of excellence. The Gorillas are also known for their strong fan support.

Question 5:What are the goals of the Pittsburg State Volleyball team?

Answer: The Pittsburg State Volleyball team has a number of goals, including winning the MIAA Championship, the NCAA Division II Central Region Championship, and the NCAA Division II National Championship. The Gorillas also want to maintain their tradition of excellence and continue to be one of the top volleyball programs in the country.

Question 6:What is the future of the Pittsburg State Volleyball team?

Answer: The Pittsburg State Volleyball team has a bright future. The Gorillas have a young and talented team, and they are led by one of the best coaches in the country. The Gorillas are poised for continued success in the years to come.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Pittsburg State Volleyball program. For more information, please visit the Pittsburg State Athletics website.

Transition to the next article section:

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Gorillas are a perennial contender for the National Championship, and they are always a threat to win it all.

Volleyball Tips

Volleyball is a great way to get exercise and have fun. It is also a challenging sport that requires skill and athleticism. Here are a few tips to help you improve your volleyball skills:

Tip 1: Master the basic skills.

The basic skills of volleyball include passing, setting, and hitting. It is important to master these skills before you can start playing the game effectively. There are many resources available to help you learn the basic skills, including books, videos, and online tutorials.

Tip 2: Practice regularly.

The best way to improve your volleyball skills is to practice regularly. Try to practice at least twice a week. You can practice by yourself or with friends or family members.

Tip 3: Find a good coach.

A good coach can help you improve your skills and learn the game of volleyball. Look for a coach who is experienced and knowledgeable about the game. A good coach will be able to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and develop a plan to help you improve.

Tip 4: Play in a league or tournament.

Playing in a league or tournament is a great way to get game experience and improve your skills. It is also a good way to meet new people and make friends.

Tip 5: Stay positive.

Volleyball can be a frustrating game at times. It is important to stay positive and learn from your mistakes. Don’t get discouraged if you make a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and move on.

Summary of key takeaways or benefits:

• Mastering the basic skills of volleyball will help you play the game more effectively.
• Practicing regularly will help you improve your skills and become a better player.
• Finding a good coach can help you learn the game of volleyball and improve your skills.
• Playing in a league or tournament is a great way to get game experience and improve your skills.
• Staying positive will help you learn from your mistakes and become a better player.

Transition to the article’s conclusion:

By following these tips, you can improve your volleyball skills and enjoy the game more. Volleyball is a great way to get exercise, have fun, and meet new people. So get out there and start playing!

Conclusion

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a model of success. The Gorillas have won 5 National Championships, made 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances, and have won 50+ consecutive winning seasons. This success is due to a number of factors, including a strong coaching staff, a talented roster, and a strong tradition of excellence. The Gorillas are a perennial contender for the National Championship, and they are always a threat to win it all.

The future of the Pittsburg State Volleyball program is bright. The Gorillas have a young and talented team, and they are led by one of the best coaches in the country. The Gorillas are poised for continued success in the years to come.

The Pittsburg State Volleyball program is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Gorillas are a role model for other sports programs, and they show that it is possible to win championships wit
h a small-school program.