USA Volleyball has announced Texas Longhorns Associate Head Coach Erik Sullivan as the new head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team, succeeding Karch Kiraly, who led the team to three Olympic medals and a World Championship title.
Sullivan, with decades of coaching and playing experience, is stepping in at a crucial moment for the program. The appointment comes before the 2025 Volleyball Nations League season, which commences on June 4 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Sullivan’s coaching career is extensive, having led the Texas Longhorns to three NCAA Championships, including consecutive titles in 2022 and 2023. Renowned for his defensive expertise, he has also coached at Nebraska and Colorado. Additionally, he served with the U.S. Women’s Junior National Team at the FIVB Championships in 2011.
In a statement on Monday on behalf of USA Volleyball Sullivan said:
“I’m honored and excited to take on this new responsibility as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team,” said Sullivan. “Karch Kiraly has left an incredible legacy, and I’m committed to continuing the work he has done with this amazing team. My goal is to build on a strong foundation and create an environment where our athletes can develop to their fullest potential while competing at the highest level. I look forward to working alongside this talented group of athletes as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”
“I’m thrilled that Erik Sullivan will be the next head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team,” said two-time Olympian and Longhorn elite Chiaka Ogbogu. “The team will continue its tradition of being led by a world-class coach, and Erik’s experience as an Olympian will be invaluable. The volleyball knowledge I gained from him continues to shape my game, but the leadership lessons he taught me—about upholding a gold-medal standard—are what I’m most grateful for.”
Sullivan will assume the role in preparation for the upcoming international season, with a primary focus on building momentum for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. It was noted he will assist the Longhorns in a smooth transition and Longhorn nation has already embraced his move.
Fired up for @SullivanErik and his family… What an opportunity 🤘🏽🌎… https://t.co/xJdwHZADzj
— Chris Del Conte (@_delconte) January 6, 2025
As they say:
What Starts Here, Changes the World.