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Hall of Fame
The WVC Hall of Fame was founded on the 10th anniversary of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference in April of 2002. It was started to recognize former conference standouts and contributors. The annual class will be elected by current Hall of Fame members and the WVC Advisory Committee.
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Class of 2019 |
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Tyler Boddy - Right Side Hitter - UW-Oshkosh - 2008-2012 |
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Tyler Boddy was the best player on the most dominant team of his generation. Tyler was a multiple WVC all-conference selection, and won the WVC MVP award in 2011 and 2012. As a dominating 6-rotation right side hitter Ty will be remembered as one of the best blockers in WVC history. Ty's terrific jump serve, passing accuracy and solid defense allowed him to carry Oshkosh to a National Championship and earn a Nationals MVP in 2011 and All American honors in 2012. Ty led the Titans to 3 WVC championships, earned 4 WVC All-Conference selections, was named newcomer of the year in 2008. Perhaps the best player to compete in the WVC, Ty's legacy is more than volleyball, and includes being one of the finest individuals and teammates in WVC and UW-Oshkosh history.
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Danny Hessling - Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 2006-2010 |
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The consummate team player and extremely hard worker, Danny Hessling was a force as a middle blocker for UW-Oshkosh from 2006-2010. A prominent member of Division I National Championship teams in 2006 and 2007, he was a 2nd-Team All American in 2009 when the Titans had a national runner-up finish. Hessling was an All-Tournament Team selection at the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference State Championship four times helping UW-Oshkosh to two State Championships. The Titans secured Midwest Ten Conference titles all five years he played and was a three-time All-Conference selection. Hessling was President and Captain of the UW-Oshkosh team for two seasons. Despite being a fierce competitor, Hessling was well liked even by the toughest rivals.
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Jeff Krase - Right Side Hitter - UW-Oshkosh - 1998-2000 |
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A dominating right side hitter, Jeff Krase played for UW-Oshkosh from 1998-2000. In 1998 he helped the Titans to a Wisconsin Volleyball Conference State Championship and a fifth place showing at the NIRSA Division I national championship (Which was the highest finish at the time for the Titans). In 1999 he was named the WVC State Championship Most Valuable Player after collecting 40 kills in the championship match in leading UW-Oshkosh to the state title. In 2000, he wrapped up his career by being named the WVC State Championship Most Valuable Player for a second consecutive season, first team All-WVC and a Wisconsin Volleyball Conference All-Star. The Titans won their fourth consecutive state championship title. His senior year he made the difficult decision to not play volleyball so that he could obtain an internship so he could graduate in fourth years with a degree in biology.
Jeff Krase played during the Dave Boos, Jim Boos, Paul Hammen and Josh Wagner era of UW-Oshkosh volleyball. All of those players have since been inducted into the WVC Hall of Fame. Standing only 5-11, Krase had court vision, lefty power and finesse and was a key competent of a dominating stretch in the WVC by the Titans.
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Class of 2018 |
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Jackie Koepke - Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 2008-2010 |
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Jackie was an outstanding middle attacker for the Titan women's squad from 2008-2010. She earned all-conference honorable mention honors in 2008 and led the Titans to the conference championship, losing a heartbreaker to UW-La Crosse. In 2009, Jackie was a first-team all-conference selection and the MVP runner up while leading her team to the conference semifinals. Then, 2010 was Jackie's year to shine as she lead the Titans to the WVC State Championship over UW-La Crosse. She was voted at the conference Most Valuable player and selected as the State Championships Tournament MVP as well. For three seasons, she was one of a handful of dominant players in the WVC Women's Division, and her stellar play and individual honors etched her name as one of the top players in WVC history. Jackie was loved by her teammates for her competitive nature on the court and for being a fun and great person off the court. Jackie simply understood that if everyone works hard and does their job, good things happen and in Jackie's case, this turned out to be two Most Valuable Player awards, a State Championships and a Hall of Fame nomination.
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Avdo Omerbegovic - Middle Blocker - Lakeland College - 2007-2010 |
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Avdo Omerbegovic was the critical talent and presence in the middle for Lakeland College's golden years. After embracing his role as a blocker, he developed as a potent transition attacker and consistent sideout threat. They say respect is earned. Too often lost is the better statement
that says respect is better given before received. Avdo embodies the latter. From the day he arrived on campus, his coaches were "Coach" and his teammates were "Sir." Every exchange ended
with a thank you and he carried himself with a maturity and perspective that led him to the success he achieved. Avdo was willing to work to achieve more.
Those that know him describe him as relentlessly motivated, respectful, and appreciative. Even when he was not getting set, he drew a ton of attention to free up his teammates. By the end of his career, he had added a point scoring jump serve to an arsenal of shots. He was one of the key members on a Lakeland squad that appeared in 3 National Championship matches over 4 years.
As sports greatness is often demonstrated in a single name... Pele, Ichiro, Jordan, Tiger, and Favre... the WVC now has Avdo.
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2008 Lakeland College Muskies |
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2008 National Division I Champions
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Class of 2017 |
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John Erickson - Right Side Hitter - UW-Whitewater - 2004-2006, UW-Oshkosh - 2006-2009 |
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John Erickson played two years at UW-Whitewater from 2005-2006 before finishing up his career at UW-Oshkosh during the 2007-2009 seasons. As a Warhawk he garnered first team All-Wisconsin Volleyball Conference honors in 2006. After watching UW-Oshkosh win the NIRSA Division I title in 2006, he decided that he wanted to transfer.
A dominating and passionate right side hitter, he immediately made a difference for the Titans. He helped UW-Oshkosh repeat as NIRSA Division I national champions in 2007, where he earned All-American Honorable Mention honors.
Earlier in the season he helped the Titans to the WVC regular season conference title and both the Midwest Ten Conference regular season and tournament championship crowns. He was named an All-Conference First Team performer in both leagues.
In 2008, the Titans again won the WVC regular season conference title and both the Midwest Ten Conference regular season and tournament championships. John was once again named First Team All-Conference in both conferences.
In 2009, John capped his career being named All-WVC First Team for the fourth consecutive season leading the Titans once against to the WVC regular season and state tournament championships. In the first year the National Collegiate Volleyball Federation took over for NIRSA, the Titans reached the championship match before falling to Fresno State University in a thrilling three set finale.
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Ryan Heller - Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 1995-1997 |
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A high flying 6-1 middle blocker, Ryan Heller used his natural athletic ability to help push UW-Oshkosh into the Division I national collegiate club spotlight. Although never playing volleyball before entering college, Heller helped the Titans to the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Eastern Division title in 1995 and a third place showing at the WVC State Championship. Heller was named a WVC honorable mention selection while leading the Titans to a 41-15 record and a ninth place finish at the NIRSA Division II national championship. It was the first year the Titans competed on a national stage.
In 1996, UW-Oshkosh captured the WVC's first national championship by winning the NIRSA Division II title in Toledo, Ohio. The Titans took second at the WVC State Championship and finished with a 26-6 record. Heller once again was named WVC honorable mention.
In 1997 UW-Oshkosh had a break out year after entering the world of Division I collegiate club volleyball. They captured three tournament titles, took third in their first year competing at the Midwest Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) tournament, won their first WVC regular season title and the WVC State Championship. UW-Oshkosh pushed eventual national champion Sacramento State University and lost 15-13, 15-13 to a scholarship team in their season-ending power pool to capture 17th at the NIRSA Division I national championship. Heller was one of four UW-Oshkosh players named WVC first team that season as the Titans finished the year with a 50-6 record.
Heller played during the Dave Boos, Jim Boos, Paul Hammen and Mike Radtke era of UW-Oshkosh volleyball. All of those players have since been inducted into the WVC Hall of Fame. Heller was a huge part of the Titans potent offense and a go-to-hitter his entire career.
Heller was known as a competitive, humble player that didn't realize necessarily how good he really was at the time. Without knowing the future, he was instrumental in showing not only UW-Oshkosh, but other WVC schools that teams from Wisconsin could compete against the "big boys" of collegiate club volleyball, and win.
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Erich Hinterstocker - Left Side Hitter - Wisconsin Lutheran - 1994, Marquette University - 1995-1996 |
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Erich started the men's club volleyball team at Wisconsin Lutheran College and joined the WVC for the 1994 season. However, Erich was more than an outstanding visionary and team leader. He was a fantastic volleyball player too. Erich played just one season at Wisconsin Lutheran before transferring to Marquette University for the 1994-96 seasons. He served as Marquette's team captain for two seasons, earning first team all-conference in both seasons. Eric led the Golden Eagles to the 1996 State Championship and was named the State Championships Tournament's MVP that season.
A consummate competitor, Erich was one of the "best ball-control left-side hitters" in the league. He simply controlled matches with his consistent offense, pinpoint passing and relentless defense. Attacking against taller opponents, Erich developed a complete offensive repertoire and always rose to the challenge and found a way to get the job done.
Erich pushed his teammates to be their best, and anyone who ever had the privilege to play with Erich is thankful for the experience. They became better players and people because of Erich's work ethic, leadership and determination. Erich transferred his love, skill and knowledge for the game to a long career in NCAA Women's coaching at a number of scholarship programs including most recently as the lead assistant at Marquette University. Erich was considered one of the best players of his generation and is very deserving of enshrinement into the WVC Hall of Fame.
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Class of 2016 |
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Pete Foerster - Left/RIght Side Hitter - UW-Platteville - 1997, UW-Milwaukee - 1998-2000 |
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During the late 1990's Wisconsin Milwaukee had a brief history in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference (1997-2000). Pete Forester was at the forefront of that era as a player, and as a club president. Following the termination of the Men's Division 1 program in 1997, Pete adopted a group of young players from that team and lead them into the WVC with great success. The program helped set the bar for WVC success with 3 NIRSA Gold Bracket finishes, 1 Top Ten Finish and 1 Regular Season WVC Championship.
Although Pete originally started his career at UW-Platteville as a Freshman, he transferred to Milwaukee to study architecture. During his career, Pete converted from the Right Side to the Left Side and was a Three Time All-Conference Selection, Two Time All Midwest 10 selection and Two Time WVC All Star (first two years of All-Star tradition). He became a primary passer in a 2 passer system and ran was part of the fast tempo pin set and Bik evolution that is now a standard in Men's Volleyball. Pete lead Milwaukee in Kills in their Top 10/WVC Championship Season while running the club as president from 1998-2001.
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Bruce Meredith - Left Side Hitter - UW-Stevens Point - 1989-1993 |
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Bruce Meredith starred for the UWSP Men's Volleyball team from 1989-1993, and quickly became one of the most dynamic attackers in WVC history. A three-time All Conference outside hitter, Bruce was a member of the "first" WVC All Conference Team in 1992. Bruce played on the first 1992 UW-Stevens Point State Championship team and helped the Pointers to a third-place finish in 1993. The Pointers were one of the first Wisconsin teams to attend the NIRSA National Championships traveling to the Air Force Academy for the 1991 tournament.
An outstanding basketball player and incredible leaper, Bruce made the decision to play intercollegiate volleyball, and wanted nothing more than to be coached and to get better. Bruce's quiet demeanor and unmatched work ethic allowed him to develop his passing and attacking skills. This unique skill set led Bruce to become one of the first true "swing hitters" in the Wisconsin volleyball scene. Passing and attacking from a two-man serve receive formation was unheard of at the time, and Bruce quickly perfected it and became feared by all opponents. Bruce was simply lethal from the pin and even more dangerous bombing combination and play sets from all attacking zones.
Bruce is one of the classiest individuals to compete in the WVC and one of the finest people you will ever meet. The consummate teammate, Bruce consistently modeled to the younger players how to identify your weaknesses and work at improving them everyday. Bruce continues to give back to the game as the Women's Head Coach at Wisconsin Lutheran University as well as coaching with the Milwaukee Sting Volleyball Club.
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Nate Sederberg - Left Side Hitter/Setter - UW-Oshkosh - 2005-2010 |
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Nate Sederberg, a 6-1 setter and left-side hitter from Racine Horlick High School is one of the most complete players in UW-Oshkosh history.
Immediately making an impact in 2005 as a starting left-side hitter, he was named the WVC Freshmen of the Year and helped the team to a Division I second-place national finish.
In 2006 he collected his first of three All-American honors, being named a second-team honoree as the Titans capped off their 56-1 season with a Division I national championship. Earlier in the season he was named All-WVC honorable mention and the WVC State Championship Most Valuable Player as the Titans won the WVC title.
In 2007, Nate anchored a defense that again won the Division I national championship. He was named an All-WVC first-team honoree for the first time.
2008 and 2009 were break-out seasons for Nate as he was named an All-WVC first team selection and was honored as the Midwest Ten Conference most valuable player both seasons. In 2009, he was named a Division I first-team All-American and National Setter of the Year, leading the Titans to a second-place finish.
In 2010, Nate was named an All-American honorable mention selection, an All-Midwest Ten Conference first-team honoree and co-most valuable player in the WVC. He also picked up most valuable player honors at the Las Vegas Open as the Titans captured that tournament for the second time.
In his time in a Titans' uniform he helped UW-Oshkosh to a .888 winning percentage (317-40), two national runner-up finishes and two national titles
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Gary Tome - Left Side Hitter - UW-La Crosse - 1990, 1992 & 1994 |
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Gary Tome came to UW-La Crosse in 1990 from Greenfield High School where he was an All-State outside attacker. After earning (NIVC) All-Conference honors in 1990 Gary transferred to UW-Milwaukee as one of the "founding fathers" of their D1 Varsity program.
After early success, Gary suffered his 1st in a series of major volleyball related injuries which kept him off the court, and led him back to UW-L to pursue his teaching degree. While attempting to play again, back to back broken ankles set back those plans. Fast forward... rehab, and a couple years, and he was ready to give it one last rodeo.
In 1994 Gary was back on the court and played an integral role in helping his team, as UW-La Crosse finished the regular season as WVC Conference Champions, along with a 2nd place finish at the conference tourney. He was also recognized as a WVC All-Conference selection. After hearing all about the great fun and competition at nationals, Gary was able to compete in his 1st and only national competition at Arizona St. University. With a great group of guys and super teammates, UW-L finished 5th at the NIRSA National Championships. Gary made up for lost time as he was named to the 1994 All-American team.
Gary was described as a "dynamic" player in all phases of the game who loved to compete and always wanted to take the big swing. He took special pride in being an all-around player. As a side bar, he never met a 50/50 ball bouncing occasion or contest that he didn't love! (There are still some ceiling tiles that need to be replaced). Gary has had the opportunity to share his passion for the game, as he has been coaching both boys and girls' high school volleyball for the past 25 years, along with his own kids Chloe, Max and Lilly.
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Scott Towne - RIght Side Hitter - UW-Stevens Point - 1989-1992 |
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Scott Towne was the voice of UWSP Men's Volleyball in the early 1990's, earning all conference honors in 1991 and 1992 in the NIVC before earning a spot on the "first" WVC All Conference team in 1992 during the WVC's inaugural season. Scott was also a member of the first 1992 UW-Stevens Point State Championship team. The Pointers were one of the first Wisconsin teams to attend the NIRSA National Championships traveling to the Air Force Academy for the 1991 tournament.
A dynamic right-side hitter, Scott brought a deep passion for the game to his very first practice, and made it clear that he was there to work at becoming the best player he could be. He expected and demanded this of his teammates, and this leadership was instrumental in helping the Pointers become the dominant team of the era. Open to coaching, Scott quickly realized that the key to the game is ball control and worked tirelessly at his passing and defensive skills. At a time before hand passing was legal, Scott perfected his "bumping" skills and became one of the best passers in WVC history. Scott also took over matches with his blocking skills, often eliminating the opponent's best outside hitters all by himself.
Scott's versatility also allowed him to emerge as a setter for the Pointers when the team needed him to help run a 6-2 offense. As a crafty "lefty", Scott was devastating from the service line, bombing wicked jump serves that had more pace and movement than his opponents ever faced before. Of course, some players let their actions do their talking, however Scott was never afraid to remind an opponent that he just aced them or blocked them at their shoes. This simply added to Scott's big personality and talent. Forging a love-hate relationship, everyone loved competing against Scott, as he brought out the best in his opponents. While they hated losing to him, no one missed a chance to socialize with Scott after every match as well.
Scott is one of the all-time greats in WVC history. While his tenure was short, he helped lay the groundwork for future generations of champions. After graduation, Scott enjoyed a successful run on the Midwest Volleyball Professionals tour, becoming one of the best beach players in the midwest. Scott pushed his teammates to be their best, and anyone who ever had the privilege to play with Scott is thankful for the experience and became better players and people because of Scott's work ethic, leadership and friendship.
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Aaron Wayne - Libero - UW-Oshkosh - 2005-2010 |
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Aaron Wayne, a 5-10 libero from Catholic Memorial High School, no doubt ended his career as the best libero to ever play collegiate club volleyball.
As a freshman in 2005, Aaron immediately helped the Titans become know nationally when he paced the Titans to a runner-up finish at the Division I national championship. For his efforts he was named a second-team All-American after previously being named to the WVC All-Freshmen team.
In 2006 he was named the Libero of the Year in two conferences - the WVC and Midwest Ten in leading UW-Oshkosh to both titles. At the national championships, Aaron captured second team All-American honors for the second consecutive year as the Titans took the national title with a 56-1 record.
2007 brought a different role for Aaron as he hit left side for most of the season, capturing All-WVC honorable mention honors. Forced to play his natural position due to a leg injury, Aaron was named the Division I National Libero of the Year and First-Team All-American as the Titans won its second consecutive national crown.
2008 and 2009 brought more hardware for Aaron as he was named the Libero of the Year in both the WVC and Midwest Ten Conference for a third time, as well as an All-WVC first team selection.
Aaron capped his 2009 campaign by being named the Division I National Libero of the Year and a First-Team All-American for a second time as the Titans reached the title match.
His final year on the court in 2010, Aaron was named the WVC Libero of the Year for a fourth time in his career and an All-WVC first team selection. UW-Oshkosh won its first MIVA championship during the season and finished 9th in the nation.
Aaron, who served a team captain this season, ended his career with a 317-40 record in a Titans' uniform.
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Nicole (Zimmerman) Bakalars - Outside Hitter - UW-La Crosse - 2008-2009 |
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Being a setter is not always a glory job, but there are some hitters that make your sets look amazing, no matter where they are. Nicole was a setters dream, she could use her cut shot to kill your set that was too far out, she could tip your too tight ball in the perfect spot and she could pound your flawless set down the line or cross court. But there was more, something not every hitter does, she would automatically turn around and thank you for a great set. She would smile at you from across the court if she couldn't give you a high five in person. Nicole is a leader, a captain, but more importantly she is a friend to everyone who played beside her.
Nicole went to play volleyball at St. Norbert's College, but then transferred to UW-La Crosse to play club volleyball there. Not only did she play club volleyball at UW La Crosse but she gave them their start. Starting a club sport at the college level takes grit, dedication, organization and a business like background. Nicole has all of these qualities, which easily set her apart from her peers. As you can see here tonight, as she is the first female inductee for this organization.
She is beautiful, she is hard working, she is loyal, she is competitive and most of all she is kind. There is no one else who cares more about the sport of volleyball than a retired player, current club and high school coach and one of the best teammates ever.
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Matt Zwolski - Libero - Marquette University - 2004-2007 |
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Most players are remembered for their resounding kills or colossal blocks, so it takes an incredibly special player to make us remember them for their passing alone. Matt Zwolski was a vital member of the Marquette Men's Club Volleyball Team from 2004-2007. When he joined the team in 2004, he very likely had no idea of how crucial a role he would be playing in the years to come. At the beginning of that year, Marquette's lineup was all but set, though lacking in a defensive specialist. It seems that sometimes the stars are aligned, and a future All-American libero appears at your doorstep. This was a team with grand expectations on both a regional and national level, and Matt found himself thrust right into the starting lineup as a freshman. In just his first year, he claimed a spot on the WVC All-Freshman Team, and helped Marquette to a 5th place finish at the 2004 NIRSA National Championships in Charlotte, the team's best national tournament finish up to that point.
Matt has certainly had his fair share of spectacular digs. But his tremendous consistency is what puts him miles ahead of anyone in his trade. Though the highlight reels might not remember it, his hitters, and certainly his setters, will forever remember how easy the game becomes when playing with him on the court.
The success of the Marquette Men's Club Volleyball team would not have been possible without the addition of Matt as the final piece of the puzzle. And those pieces certainly did come together wonderfully, as in 2005, Matt took home an All-Tournament Honorable Mention while guiding Marquette to its first and only NIRSA National Championship Title.
In that year and the years to follow, Matt would make a name for himself in the WVC, as he was named to the 2005 WVC All-Tournament Team, 2006 WVC All-Conference Honorable Mention, Digs Champion, and Libero of the Year, and 2007 WVC Libero of the Year. Not to mention the numerous additional accolades from MIVA and the Midwest 10. And perhaps most impressively, he would be named All-Tournament Libero at the 2006 NIRSA National Championships. Now he can add another accomplishment to that long list with his well-deserved entry into the WVC Hall of Fame.
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2005 Marquette University Golden Eagles |
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In 2005, Marquette University became the first WVC team to capture a DIvision I National Championship.
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Class of 2015 |
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Joe Julkowski - Left Side Hitter - Lakeland College - 2006-2010 |
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There are few players who are easy to coach. Meaning, they never give you a headache with academic trouble, behavioral issues, bad attitude, or lack of effort. There are few other players who are always a lot of fun to coach... ones who make you laugh a lot, are a good sport about getting teased, whose every teammate enjoys being around them, and graduate leaving memorable stories. There are also few players whose level of play puts them at an elite level. What some might say is the most rare is the competitor who remains selfless willing to play any role the team, the coach, and the moment demands. I believe the rarest of individuals is the one that is all of these things, and that is Joe Julkowski.
Joe's selflessness is the most meaningful compliment anyone can give to him. When he came in to college those around him wanted more for him than he wanted for himself. What they quickly noticed was that he also wanted more for all of them than he wanted for himself. He is the consummate Golden Rule and Pay it Forward person we all wish we could be and is now being honored and appreciated for how he has always honored and appreciated others and the sport of volleyball that he dominated. - Chad Schreiber (Head Coach)
- All-American -National Collegiate Volleyball Federation (NCVF) 2008, 2009, and 2010
- Most Valuable Player - Wisconsin Volleyball Conference (WVC) - 2009 and 2010
- Most Valuable Player- Midwest-Ten Conference - 2010
- All-Conference -Wisconsin Volleyball Conference (WVC) - 2006, 2008, 2009, and 2010
- Midwest-Ten All-Conference - 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010
- All-Freshman Team -Wisconsin Volleyball Conference (WVC) - 2006
- Lakeland College Rookie of the Year - 2006
- 2010 - National Finalists, Conference Finalists, WVC Tourney Champs
- 2009 - National Semi-Finalists, Conference Finalists
- 2008 - National Champions, Conference Champions, WVC Tourney Champs
- 2007 - National Finalists, Conference Champions, WVC Tourney Champs
- 2006 - WVC Conference Finalists, Iowa Tournament Champions
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Class of 2014 |
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None |
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Class of 2013 |
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None |
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Class of 2012 |
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Matt Martin - Left Side Hitter - Lakeland College - 2004-2008 |
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Matt Martin played at Lakeland from 2004-2008 where he received numerous honors.
Matt spent the first part of his freshman season on JV, but earned a spot on the varsity lineup
unfortunately due to a teammate's injury. Despite the circumstances, Matt was well deserving
of the starting role. His dedication and perseverance were unmatched as he pushed himself
and others to compete at their best daily. Matt finished his freshman season making the
WVC All-Freshman team and was also awarded the Junior Varsity/Division II MVP award.
It was during his sophomore season that Matt learned what role he needed to fill in the Muskie
lineup. One sound that was associated to Matt was, "Duh-Do"; the sound the ball made off the
ground when Matt got blocked. While that infamous sound is associated with Matt's aggressive
attack, there were many more positive electric moments that Matt is known for. Despite all the
"Duh-Do's" of Matt's sophomore year, he was selected to the WVC All-Tournament team and
helped the Muskies to a 3rd place finish at the national tournament where they overcame a
tough Arizona team who had previously won 4 out of the last 6 national titles.
2006 was also a great year for Matt. The "Duh-Do's" were far and few in-between and he was more often associated with the electric kills
in front of the opposing defenses. During this year Matt was awarded All-Conference honors for both WVC and Midwest 10. At the national
tournament, Matt led a young Lakeland lineup to a 9th place finish where he also garnered an Honorable Mention All-American award.
During Matt's senior year in 2007, he led the Muskies to their first WVC title. As the leader of the powerful Muskie lineup, Matt was
awarded the WVC's MVP award. In the Midwest 10 conference, Matt was awarded All-Conference honors for the second straight year.
Matt also led the Muskie squad to their then-best national finish as National Finalists and was 1st team All-American.
With the loss in the national title game his senior year, Matt could not pass up another opportunity for a run at the national title.
2008 proved to be Matt's best year despite a period of injury. Matt was awarded with the WVC Most Valuable Player honor as he led the
Muskies to a consecutive conference championship. Matt's most prestigious honor came at the national tournament. In 2008, Lakeland made
it to a consecutive national title match -and thanks to Matt's stellar serving, won both sets, leading Lakeland to its first ever National Title.
Matt was the National Tournament's Most Valuable Player.
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Chad Schreiber - Head Coach - Lakeland College - 1996-2011 |
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As a player, Chad Schreiber began his career on the shores of Lake Michigan where he and a
handful of friends thought it would be cool to have their own little slice of California in Wisconsin.
Soon he found himself on the hard courts of UW-Oshkosh in 1993 as a member of the Titans.
Three years later he had racked up 1,243 assists as well as spending a year as the team's
coach, leaving them in better shape than when he began. Lakeland College was next, where in 1996 he began the men's club program.
As a coach, Chad was never satisfied with past accomplishments and continually pushed himself,
his assistants and our players to do it better than the day before. hat attitude and drive resulted
in a program that began in obscurity and is now known nationally. At the conclusion of his career
at Lakeland he left with a 489-190-10 record, equaling a .710 winning percentage.
In the WVC a 141-60 record. A National Championship in Division II. In Division 1 the Muskies
played three times in a National Championship match, securing a victory in 2008.
Four WVC Championships along with a myriad of Championship appearances in the WVC,
Midwest 10 and MIVA conferences scratch the surface of a long list of accomplishments.
For 11 consecutive years the team held on to a top 25 ranking in the national polls. In 2007 Chad was awarded National Coach of the
Year by NIRSA. That same professionalism and consistency carried over into the WVC as well. Chad knew that by running a strong,
well organized and competitive program that it would better the conference and make club volleyball in Wisconsin more respectable as whole.
At the root of it all is a person who continually strives to better himself and loves volleyball with a passion. As a coach that meant
continually improving upon our practices and how he personally taught the game. He consistently kept men's volleyball in the conversation
of the athletic department as he fought for better practice times and for the program to be treated more like a varsity sport.
From the National All-Americans, of which he coached 26 in his time, to the walk-on foreign exchange students who didn't even
have a pair athletic shoes, no one can ever say that they weren't given a chance. He always wanted them to become better men,
not just players and if you ask any of them now, I think you'll find he's successfully accomplished it.
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Class of 2011 |
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Jason Julius - Setter - UW-Platteville - 1991-1996 |
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Jason Julius played for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville from 1991 to 1996. As a person who had really no organized volleyball experience, Jason started out as a passer and a hitter. When the team needed a setter in his second season, Jason decided to "try it."
During the next two seasons, the young UW-Platteville team and the inexperienced setter took their lumps. However, Jason's competitive nature was evident because he worked hard to become an excellent setter. With a head for the game and a set of hands that were always improving, it was an entirely different story during the 1994-95 and 1995-96 seasons when they finished first or tied for first in the conference.
The UW-Platteville team and Jason improved because of the maturation of all of the players. For a setter to be successful the passing has to be there. Players like Mike Radtke, Chad Julius, Eric Johnson and Greg Hawkenson provided this solid passing performance. The setter can only put the ball in the right spot, it is up to the hitters to finish the deal. This was also the case for Jason. Hitters like Todd Halvensleben, Mike Radtke, Chad Julius and Eric Johnson would deliver time and time again. During this time, Jason's athleticism, leadership and competitive nature really came forward. For his improvements and team's success, Jason received 1st All-conference honors during the 1994-95 and 1995-96 seasons.
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Andrew Sederberg - Setter - UW-Oshkosh - 2002-2007 |
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It is only fitting that Andrew Sederberg, who played for the UW-Oshkosh men's volleyball team from 2002-2007, was inducted into the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Hall of Fame on the same court that he helped the Titans win so many matches.
Hailing from Racine Horlick High School, Andrew made his mark the moment he put on his Titans uniform, leading UW-Oshkosh to a 21st place NIRSA Division I National Championship finish after being named a WVC First-Team selection and the WVC Newcomer of the Year in 2002.
In 2003 and 2004, Andrew picked up two more WVC First-Team selections in helping the Titans to the 2003 WVC North Division title and the 2004 WVC State Championship crown. Both years the Titans finished in 5th place at the NIRSA Division I National Championship, with Andrew being named to the All-American Second-Team in 2004.
Starting in 2005, through Andrew's leadership and talent, the Titans enjoyed what many have said to be the best three-year run in the history of collegiate club volleyball.
UW-Oshkosh started their magical stretch with a NIRSA Division I National Championship runner-up finish in 2005, followed by two straight NIRSA Division I National Championship titles in 2006 and 2007. During their three-year reign the Titans enjoyed a 169-13 record, won the 2006 WVC State Championship and finished that same campaign with a 56-1 record.
Andrew was named a WVC First-Team honoree and WVC State Championship All-Tournament Team selection all three years, including being named the WVC Most Valuable Player in 2005 and 2006. He was named a NIRSA Division I First-Team All-American in 2005 and 2006 and was named the NIRSA Division I National Player of the Year in 2007.
Andrew concluded his career as a four-time NIRSA Division I All-American, a two-time WVC Most Valuable Player recipient and a six-time WVC First-Team performer. No other player in the history of collegiate club volleyball has that on their resume.
Andrew finished with over 10,000 assists, 1,200 digs and 400 service aces in over 900 sets played. Never missing a match in his six-year career, Andrew led the Titans a .811 winning percentage on a 298-67-5 overall record.
Although his talent could have let him act differently, Andrew was known for his quiet demeanor on the court - until he got a solo block. With the banners hanging on the wall of the Kolf Sports Center as proof, Andrew pushed UW-Oshkosh into the forefront of being one of the best collegiate club programs in the nation.
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Class of 2010 |
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Jeff Thomas - Left Side Hitter - UW-Oshkosh - 2001-2006 |
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Jeff Thomas, who wore a UW-Oshkosh uniform for six seasons, made an immediate impact for the Titans. In 2001, he was named the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Freshman of the Year, as well as a member of the WVC All-star team. Starting his career as a high-flying middle blocker, Jeff helped the Titans to a 25th-place showing at the NIRSA Division I national championship.
In 2002, Jeff was instrumental in making UW-Oshkosh a nationally recognized name when he moved to the left-side hitter position and helped the Titans to a 21st-place mark at the NIRSA Division I national championship.
In 2003, Jeff was named to the All-WVC first team as UW-Oshkosh captured the WVC North Division crown. At the NIRSA Division I national championship, Jeff helped the Titans to a fifth-place showing, their best since the 1998 season.
The following year, Jeff was honored for the second consecutive year as an All-WVC first team selection, as well as picking up the WVC State Championship Most Valuable Player award for leading the Titans to the 2004 title. One week later, Jeff was assisting the Titans to another fifth-place performance at the NIRSA Division I national championship.
Racking up his third consecutive All-WVC first team honor in 2005, Jeff helped put UW-Oshkosh in the national spotlight as they went 61-7 overall and reached the title match of the NIRSA Division I national championship. His efforts did not go unnoticed as he was acknowledged as an All-American first team member.
His final season was one that most athletes only dream of as the Titans capped off the 2006 campaign with one of the most dominating seasons in the history of NIRSA. UW-Oshkosh first won the WVC regular season and WVC state championship without losing a match and then went on to win it's first ever NIRSA Division I national championship. Jeff was named to the All-WVC first team for a fourth straight season and was placed on the All-WVC state championship team. The Titans finished the season with an incredible 56-1 record.
After graduating from UW-Oshkosh, Jeff had the privilege of getting the opportunity to train in Anaheim, California with the USA national team for a brief period.
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Class of 2009 |
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Steve Austin - Middle Blocker - Marquette University - 2002-2005 |
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Austin, a 6'9" Middle Blocker from Saint Louis, MO (St. John Vianney), forever etched his name into the Marquette program when he arrived on campus in 2002. As an inexperienced player, he had the raw ability to make people believe he was going to be special, and the sheer determination to make believers out of everyone he came into contact with. Steve, in the course of four years, re-wrote the record books for middles, and grew from a shy freshman, to an outspoken leader of our 2005 National Championship Team.
Steve's accomplishments are almost too numerous to list as a two-time All-Conference Team Member, a State Championship Tournament MVP, a two-time State Tournament Team Member, and collected two State Championships in his time, and was NIRSA All-American, and ultimately a National Champion.
However, Steve could have cared less about the individual awards associated with his play. His ultimate goal was to be the best, and would strive to get nothing less than that from his teammates. His tireless work on the court, resulted in the ultimate respect in his eyes, and that was being the best at his craft for a given time- as he, and his team were awarded the National Championship in Kansas City, MO. While others may have had gaudier stats in the Championship season, Steve was the glue that held that team together. He hit an astounding .585 his senior season, while only deciding to play at the semester break.
Always a showman, Steve's most recognizable moment may have been his serving run at the State Championships. While drawing the ire of the crowd for his unique serve, Steve rattled off 6 straight points to put the match on ice against a Lakeland team they would face a week later for the right to go the National Championship game. Now, Steve can be known for one greater accomplishment, a 2009 WVC Hall of Fame Inductee.
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Chris Gornik - Middle Blocker - Lakeland College - 2002-2005 |
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Chris Gornik came to Lakeland with an appetite to be good and ended up great. Famous for the slide attack, he set up the entire Lakeland offense when we was in the front row.
The best outside hitters in the conference found thenselves helpless tryig to slow Chris down. But no puzzled look was more pricelss than the look on the faces of Arizona players in 2005 as Lakeland knocked the then-national power Wildcats out of the national tournament.
Prior to and during the match, Arizona players ridiculed Chris for running a "girls" play. Well not only did his "girls" play launch Lakeland to win that day, but the slide has become an acceptable and expanding form of attacking the men's game. And he took pride in his blocking that still has him ranked second in the program history for toal blocks. Chris possesses the rare ability to dominate an opponent and still have the guy shake his hand with a smile after it's over. He worked extremely hard to improve his overall game each and every season and every season to become a complete volleyball player.
The awards for Chris racked up early and continued to follow him annually. He was a three-time WVC All-Conference performer, two-time NIRSA All-American and twice played on Team WVC. His .504 hitting percentage led the WVC his senior season.
Chris becomes the second Lakeland player to be inducted into the WVC Hall of Fame. This is a deserving award for a player who combined consistency, competitiveness, leadership and sportsmanship. In 2003, Lakeland played in its first national championship match at the Division II level. A year later the move to Division I captured a 21st place finish. Chris' final year in 2005 was capped by a thrid place finish in Kansas City setting a standard to where the team now competes today. Chris Gornik was the pillar of strength in the middle for Lakeland College and is now recognized for his place in WVC history.
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Tom Liszka - Right Side Hitter - Marquette University - 2003-2006 |
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Tom Liszka, a 6'10" outside hitter from Chicago, IL (St. Patrick High School), defined Marquette men's volleyball from 2003-2006. He was a key component for the 2005 national championship team, but even more impressive, was his imitation of Superman en route to third place finish the following year in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Liszka, a trained middle, gave up that position after his freshman season on the JV team. From there, the ascension to the upper echelon of a very talented WVC began and never looked back. His achievements followed directly with that position switch, as Tom was a member of Team WVC, a three-time All-Conference member, three-time All-Tournament team, two-time All-American, and perhaps his greatest individual achievement a National Championship followed by a third pace finish the following.
While Tom was vital to our national championship success, his best year was the following year, in which he was the team leader and was forced to be the focal point of everyone's defense. Tom would see double and triple blocks consistently throughout the year and at one point, due to injuries was the only real attacker Marquette had. Through it all, Tom was the vocal and emotional leader, and refused to allow Marquette to be just another program.
In that 2006 National Tournament, Tom along with his other outside, single-handedly brought Marquette through the tournament. Against an undefeated Arizona team, Tom strapped Marquette on his back and beat a team that featured two former varsity players and host of other who could have played varsity. Even though Marquette's run ended the following match, Tom left his indelible mark on the Marquette program. Now he can take his rightful place amongst the other legends in WVC history as a 2009 WVC Hall of Fame inductee.
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Justin Oeth - Middle Blocker - UW-Milwaukee - 1998-2000 |
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Justin Oeth, a native of Madison, WI, started his collegiate career as a member of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, men's varsity team.
The varsity program at UWM was disbanded following the 1997 season. Justin and three other members of the Men's team decided to give this club thing a try.
Three years later, Justin had accumulated an impressive WVC career. Despite dislocating his shoulder in 3 of his collegiate seasons - Justin ended his career the following awards:
- Three-time First team all-conference
- Two-time WVC All-Star (the all star game wasn't founded until 1999)
- One all Midwest 10 selection
- One state championship appearance
- Two regular season titles.
Although Justin probably lead the WVC in hitting efficiency throughout his career, the official stat was not kept until Justin's final year in the league 2000. However in 2000, he did win the hitting award with a .500 hitting percentage.
The 6'5" Oeth dominated as a blocker as well. In fact, he probably would have led the WVC in that category as well - but he was stuck next to a short pudgy setter for 2 rotations.
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Jason Smith - Left Side Hitter/Setter - UW-Stevens Point - 1989-1993 |
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Jason Smith played for the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point between 1989 and 1993. During his tenure in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference, he achieved All-Conference honors in 1992 and conference MVP in 1993. Initially starting out as a high-flying left side hitter, his leadership skills made him into a natural setter.
Jason's play and vision had a tremendous impact on shaping not only the UW-Stevens Point program, but competitive volleyball in Wisconsin. Ever the promoter, he relished the growing attendance and interest in a club program that achieved greater match attendance than many varsity programs.
Although reserved on the outside, he had the internal competitive fire to make everyone a better player around him. Jason had a remarkable knack for identifying athletic talent with little, or no volleyball experience, and consistently developing high achieving players.
During his final playing years, Jason saw there had to be a better way to organize the Wisconsin club volleyball program. It was this foresight that lead to the creation of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference. Since becoming the commissioner in 1993, WVC teams have won 4 Division I and two Division II championships.
Those who have played in the WVC, and those who will in the future, should thank Jason for his service and commitment to the sport of volleyball.
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Ryan Theis - Setter - UW-Milwaukee - 1997-2000 |
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As a setter for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee from 1997-2000, Ryan garnered numerous accomplishments on the court including:
- Three-time WVC first-team all-conference selection
- A two-time Midwest 10 all-conference member
- WVC leader in assists and aces per game in 1999 and 2000
- Two WVC All-Star Game appearances
- WVC regular season champion from 1997-2000
- Three Top 20 finishes at nationals
- A record number of yellow cards in a career
Ryan's accomplishments obviously qualify him as an excellent setter. However, the attributes his teammates most remember about him are as a great leader and teammate.
Ryan has always been a tough competitor, outstanding leader, great teammate, excellent setter and defender, horrible blocker and had the willingness to bicker with the refs at any opportunity.
Ryan also served as the head coach at UW-Milwaukee during his career. He successfully ran every practice, implemented game strategies and otherwise coordinated all other aspects of game preparation. This was the valuable experience he acquired to propel him into the women's college volleyball coaching profession.
After college, Ryan went on to become an assistant coach at Eastern Illinois, Indiana, Northwestern and Florida. He is currently the head coach at Ohio University, where he just completed a successful first season by leading his team to the NCAA tournament.
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Class of 2008 |
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Rocky Koenig - Libero - Lakeland College - 2003-2005 |
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During the evolution of the libero in men's club volleyball, Rocky Koenig was the name most associated with that position. His fearless approach to defense, creative saves in hopeless situations, and sidestepping the 10 foot line to legally set a teammate has often been copied but never duplicated. Rocky came to Lakeland College as a self taught player seasoned by years dedicated to the armed forces. He embraced the fact that he was not like the traditional college aged player. Whether it was taking studies abroad in Japan, coaching club in his spare time, or racing bikes for cash...Rocky took pride in doing what he loved to the best of his ability. This passion for life made those around him better and just happier because he was around. This trait was recognized with the WVC's Leif Storvik award his senior season.
While a libero has trouble racking up the kind of stats that puts him in the record books, Rocky's contributions on the court did not go unnoticed when it came to awards. He was a 3-time WVC All-Conference performer, 2-time All-MIVA Selection, and twice was the NIRSA Libero of the Year.
What kind of difference did he make on the court? Rocky is the first Lakeland player to be inducted into the WVC Hall of Fame. He is deserving of this honor because he was an elite player helping a good program enter a period of greatness. In 2003 Lakeland played in its first National Championship match at the Division 2 Level. A year later the move to Division 1 captured a 21st place finish. Rocky's final year in 2005 was capped by a 3rd place finish in Kansas City setting a standard to where the team now competes today. Rocky Koenig, "the first Libero", now has a permanent place in WVC history.
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Chuck Warner - Left Side Hitter - Marquette University - 2002-2005 |
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Chuck Warner was a member of the Marquette University men's volleyball program from 2002-2005. During that time frame, it's tough to argue that there was a better player in the country. Many watched in awe, as Chuck could take over any game, at any time, in any facet of the match. Up to that point in WVC history, no other player had achieved as much as Chuck had.
During his four seasons (2002-2005), Chuck led them to two WVC State Tournament Championships, and three Regular Season Conference Titles. Chuck was a regular season MVP, a State Tournament MVP, and was a member of Team WVC three times. Also, Chuck, in the historic run to the WVC's first National Championship in Division I, was named the Nation's Most Valuable Player, following the previous year where he had been 2nd team All-American.
Chuck's presence always shone brightest on the biggest stage. Looking back, Chuck greatest single performance might have come in 2004, when he officially strapped Marquette on his back, and led them to resounding victories over national powers, Indiana and Arizona in consecutive matches in Charlotte. The opposing coach of Arizona, after drawing a yellow card, pulled me aside and stated that they should change the name to the "Chuck Warner Memorial Convention Center," because at that point he owned everything in the place.
Chuck's legacy will not be the amount of awards he won, which were many, but rather how he was able to get the best out of his teammates, no matter what the score was. Chuck demanded only what he gave which was 100% all the time and that is his lasting legacy at Marquette. Always humble, he would speak of our Championship and our wins, versus his accomplishments, which speaks volumes to the character and person that he is.
Many a moment was shared at this tournament watching and admiring Chuck as a player but now we can recognize him for what he truly is a unanimous member of the 2008 WVC Hall of Fame.
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1996 University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Titans |
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UW-Oshkosh made Wisconsin Volleyball Conference history when it became the first team in league history to win a collegiate club national title in 1996. Competing at the NIRSA Division II level, the Titans did not lose a match at the championship in route to a 9-0 record during the three-day event in Toledo, Ohio.
This championship not only propelled UW-Oshkosh into the national spotlight as a quality team, but also the WVC as a formidable conference. In only its fifth-year in existence, the WVC had already produced a national championship team, paving the way for numerous top ten national finishes in many different divisions, as well as other national championships.
The team consisted of 15 individuals, three of which are currently in the WVC Hall of Fame - Dave Boos, Jim Boos and Paul Hammen. The team was player-coached by Dave Boos, recording a 26-6 overall record and a second-place finish at the WVC State Championship. Dave Boos and Jim Boos received WVC first-team honors, Hammen second-team laurels and Ryan Heller honorable mention status for their efforts during the regular season.
After beating Washington State University in the finals in two-sets, Hammen became the first Titan player to gain All-American honors as he was placed on the first team for his play during the NIRSA Division II Championship.
This lack of recognition may have been frustrating for some teams, but not for UW-Oshkosh. The team was a tight group, relying on different people at different times to lead them to victory. Dave Boos ran the offense, Jim Boos supplied the leadership, passing and defense, Hamman and Heller the firepower in the middle, Nick Curran a solid right side attack and Cory Schmitt and Brian Schaefer consistent play in the front row and back row. Steve Garrigan supplied the sparkplug in the backcourt.
Mix in key play from Cohan Anderson, Jeff Craig, Jim Dembosky, Mat Duffy, Scott Meineke, Jeff Ottaway and Anthony Palma and you had a recipe for team unity and dedication.
The team got along plain and simple. Egos aside, nobody had a national championship in mind as the season began. The Titans just practiced hard, believed in each other and got a ton better as the year progressed.
After winning their opening pool and then their power pool during the first two days of competition the team started believing they could be something special. As the team continued to win in the gold bracket on Saturday, one fact was certain, the Titans superior ball control and court awareness were leading them to the national championship.
After the 1996 season, UW-Oshkosh made the step to the Division I collegiate club level and has never looked back. Since the 1996 Division II title, the Titans have been a household name on the collegiate club scene.
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Class of 2006 |
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Dave Boos - Setter - UW-Oshkosh - 1994-1999 |
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Dave Boos started his storied career at UW-Oshkosh in the spring of 1994 and had an immediate impact in helping the Titans gain national prowess. Seeing playing time right away as a freshman in the setting position he helped the Titans to a 15-6 overall record and a first place finish in the Eastern Division of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference. At the WVC state championship the Titans tallied a third place finish.
In 1995 the Titans took the beginning steps of becoming a legitimate contender in the WVC by once again winning the Eastern Division and taking third place at the state championship. Boos believed in having the Titans get more exposure outside the WVC, having UW-Oshkosh travel to multiple tournaments, including its first nationals appearance where the squad finished ninth in the NIRSA Division II national championship in Minneapolis, Minnesota. UW-Oshkosh finished the season with an impressive overall record of 41-15.
In 1996 Boos took over the reign of head coach and the Titans reaped the benefit of not only his guidance, but also his playing ability as he was named to the WVC first team. UW-Oshkosh won its first national title in team history by going 9-0 at the NIRSA Division II national championship in Toledo, Ohio. The Titans finished with a 26-6 overall record and finished second at the WVC state championship. The national crown was also the first in Wisconsin Volleyball Conference annuals.
After winning the NIRSA Division II national title in 1996, UW-Oshkosh made the jump to Division I and landed 17th at the NIRSA national championship in Tucson, Arizona. The Titans finished 50-6 overall after winning three tournaments during the regular season and capturing its first WVC state championship. UW-Oshkosh also secured a third-place finish in its first year competing in the Midwest Intercollegiate Volleyball Association. Boos was one of five UW-Oshkosh players named to the All-WVC first team.
The Titans enjoyed one of their finest seasons in 1998 by reaching the Elite Eight of the NIRSA Division I NIRSA national championship in Austin, Texas. UW-Oshkosh had one of the most dramatic matches in team history in the first round of the gold bracket surviving against the University of Massachusetts 24-22 in the third set. UW-Oshkosh won its second consecutive WVC state championship, finished 36-7-3 overall and Boos was named the most valuable player of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference.
In his last season as a player and coach, Boos led the Titans into its first year in the Midwest Ten Conference, finishing in second place. UW-Oshkosh won its third consecutive Wisconsin Volleyball Conference state championship and concluded the season with a 32-17-1 record. Boos was named both WVC and Midwest Ten Conference first team and a WVC Conference All-Star.
Boos finished his career as a four-time First Team All-Wisconsin Volleyball Conference selection and guided the program to WVC state championships in 1997, 1998 and 1999. Boos compiled a 144-36-4 overall record as the club's coach.
Boos graduated cum laude from Wisconsin-Oshkosh with a bachelor's of science degree in 1998. He is married to the former Amy Ward and the couple welcomed children, Kaelyn, in 2012 and son, Ethan, in 2015.
Boos is currently the associate head coach at the University of Florida after coaching stops at the University of Indiana, University of Minnesota and Ball State University. He is considered one of the best college coaches at the NCAA Division I level as the Gators are a consistent title contender in both the SEC as well as in the nation.
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Hugh Hernesman - Outside Hitter - UW-Whitewater - 1989-1994, 1997 |
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Hugh Hernesman played for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater from 1989-1994, and returned for one season in 1997. During his WVC career, Hugh achieved All-Conference honors from '92-94 and was the WVC co-MVP in 1994. Hugh was also selected to the first "All WVC Team" in 1992 during the first State Championships in Stevens Point, where he led his Warhawks to a 2nd place finish.
A Waukesha North Graduate, Hugh took over a young UWW program and turned it into a perennial conference powerhouse. Hugh had the uncanny ability to lead through his actions, his coaching and his words and players across the league gravitated to him for this reason. In turn, Whitewater became the "hub" of Wisconsin volleyball in the early years of the WVC due largely to Hugh's unparalleled leadership. Hugh was one of the original founders of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference, and it was Hugh's vision and commitment that helped the WVC to develop, evolve and emerge on the national stage.
Hugh was one of the original high-flying and dominating "swing" hitters, and took over matches with his ball control, blocking and relentless attacking from pin to pin. Hugh was a fierce competitor, who wasn't afraid to celebrate a great play and simply refused to lose. His attitude was the prime reason for UW-Whitewater winning the 1994 WVC State Championships. That year, Hugh continued to dominate opponents at the National Level and led the Warhawks to a then-school and conference best 9th place finish a the Division 1 National Championships Tournament at Arizona State University.
Hugh returned in 1997 as a graduate student and helped the Warhawks to a 3rd place WVC finish, a final four appearance in the MIVA Championships and the Division 1 Silver Division Championship at the NIRSA National Championships tournament in Tuscon, AZ.
Upon graduation, Hugh coached the UWW Men's team from 1995-96 and then from 1998-2003 tallying over 230 wins and making them a regular Top 25 program. In 2002, Hugh led UWW to a conference and then-school best fifth-place finish at the Division 1 NIRSA National Championships Tournament in Dallas, TX.
Hugh has continued to give back to the game through a number of Collegiate coaching experiences, including serving as the Head Coach at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX, lead Assistant Coach at Ball State University, Head Coach at Northwestern State in Natchitoches, LA. Hugh currently serves as the Head Coach at Clemson University with his wife Stephanie. Hugh was a winner, and continues to develop winners with his athletes both on and off the court and is one of the finest people you will ever meet.
Those who have played in the WVC and at UW-Whitewater, and those who will in the future, should thank Hugh for his service and commitment to Wisconsin Volleyball and the WVC.
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Jeff Hink - Left Side Hitter - UW-Whitewater - 1998-2002 |
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Jeff Hink was a member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men's volleyball team from 1998-2002. During the course of his career Jeff quickly became one of the most recognizable player's in conference history. Jeff was the type of player that teams always had to make a game plan for, but rarely had success stopping him.
Throughout his career Jeff was the face of UW-Whitewater volleyball. Jeff's teams won a regular season title in 2002 and finished as runner up in the 2000 and 2002 WVC state championships. Hink was an excellent all around player at the outside hitter position. He routinely led his team in kills and digs while putting up impressive blocking and serving numbers as well. His exceptional talent did not go unnoticed by the WVC, Midwest 10, or NIRSA. He earned WVC 1st team honors three consecutive years (2000-2002) while becoming the first player in conference history to win back to back Conference MVP awards in 2001 and 2002. Hink also was an all-conference performer in the Midwest 10 conference while UW-Whitewater competed in the MIVA division from 2000-2002. Jeff went out on top by earning All-American honors and leading UW-Whitewater to a then conference best 5th place finish at NIRSA nationals in Dallas, TX in 2002.
Jeff's contributions helped keep UW-Whitewater in the limelight and near the top of the conference during is career. His competitive fire was second to none, yet he let his play speak for itself. Jeff was never the most outspoken member of his team, but was always looked up to by his teammates for his ability and desire to win. Respected by opposing players and coaches alike Jeff Hink will go down as one of the best players of his era.
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Brian Sharkey - Setter - Marquette University - 1998-2003 |
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Brian Sharkey, a setter for Marquette University (1998-2003), was one of the premier setters in the country during his six-year stay in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference.
Sharkey's excellence not only showed through in his play, but it fostered a growth in his teammates unparalleled by others that came before him. He left his indelible mark on the Marquette program, bringing them from a program happy to be at nationals, to a team that expects to excel at the national level.
Sharkey was a four-time WVC All-Conference player, three time Midwest 10 All-Conference player, a MIVA All-Tournament team honoree, a member of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Advisory Board, and a Leif Storvik award winner in 2003. He also led the Golden Eagles to a Conference Championship, a second place finish in conference, three Top-10 finishes nationally and a Silver Championship at Nationals (2003). Also, Sharkey led the Golden Eagles as a coach for one year, in which they finished fifth, and had a hand in the 2005 National Championship team.
To solely look at the accolades on the court would not do justice to the full resume that Sharkey produces. His desire to make others around him better can only be beaten by his desire to win. His mental toughness shined through when he was the leader of the two matches that truly placed Marquette on the map. In his second year, Sharkey led the fourth-seeded Golden Eagles to a victory over the University of California-Berkely. Down 14-11, Sharkey led a furious comeback to guide Marquette back into the game.
Then, in his fourth year, Sharkey led the Eagles to a victory over Virginia Tech in which they fought off injuries and a fifth seed overall to win the match and vault them to their second Top 10 finish in three years. His performance in those matches was a microcosm of how he played: calm, collected and with a passion unmatched by others. It is with great pleasure that I am able to introduce Brian Sharkey, a 2006 member of the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Hall of Fame.
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Class of 2005 |
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Rob Eifler - Left Side Hitter - Marquette University - 1997-2000 |
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Rob Eifler may only have been a member of the Marquette men's volleyball team from 1997-2000, but his impact has carried on at the university and the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference every year since his departure.
In his four years at Marquette, Eifler helped lead the Golden Eagles to a pair of regular season conference championships and a second place finish at the state tournament. In 1999, he was named the conference MVP and was given statistical awards for hitting percentage and kills per game that year. He also took Marquette to its first Top 10 national finish in 1999 and a second place finish in the Midwest 10 in 2000. He was also a three-time WVC All-Conference member and three-time WVC All-Star.
At 6'2", Eifler was never the biggest man on the court, but his ability to put the ball on the floor, pick balls up on defense and shut down big hitters at the net, made the Case High School graduate a force in the WVC.
He became the face of Marquette volleyball as soon as he stepped on the court his freshman year when he was even taunted at the state tournament for being so good, so young. He never took credit for much of the team's success. His game did the talking for him, hitting through the usual triple block, even when he was injured in his final year.
Since Rob's arrival at Marquette, the program has taken giant steps forward. Eifler was pivitol in forming the foundation of the Midwest10 Conference and the foundation from which many later president's of Marquette's volleyball program have built their team's on.
Through hard work, dedication, and a lot of good times, Rob earned the respect that he earned on and off the volleyball court and is hearby inducted in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference as a member of the Class of 2005.
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Class of 2004 |
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Josh Wagner - Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 1997-2000 |
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Josh Wagner was a member of the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh men's volleyball team from 1997-2000. In his four years, UW-Oshkosh captured four Wisconsin Volleyball Conference state championships and competed for four consecutive years at the NIRSA Division I national tournament, highlighted with a 5th place finish in 1998.
Individual accolades also piled up during his career. Never playing organized volleyball before his freshmen year, Wagner was named the WVC Division II most-valuable-player before moving up to varsity in 1997. In 1998, he was sidelined for most of the season battling a thumb injury before helping the Titans to their best finish ever at the Division I NIRSA championship.
1999 began Wagner's dominance. He was named both WVC and Midwest 10 Conference First-Team. In 2000, Wagner capped his career leading the Titans to an unprecedented fourth straight WVC championship. Entering the tournament as the fourth seed, UW-Oshkosh surprised everybody by going undefeated in the tournament. He was named Midwest 10 First-Team and the WVC most-valuable-player.
Currently Wagner sits in the top ten at UW-Oshkosh in career kill attempts (1,678 - 8th), kills (953 - 7th), blocks (387 - 2nd) and is the leader with a .406 hitting percentage. He led the Titans with 436 kills and 192 blocks in 2000.
Through hard work and dedication Wagner became one of the best middle blockers in the history of the WVC and Midwest 10 Conference. Learning the game as freshmen, Wagner became one of the best all around players ever at UW-Oshkosh, playing both front and back row. He was well liked by his teammates because of his unselfishness and ability to bring the best out of everyone around him both on and off the court.
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Mike Ebbert - Middle Blocker - UW-Whitewater - 1993-1994 |
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Mike Ebbert was a member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men's volleyball team from 1993-1994. He became known not only for his offense but his overall presence at the net. Ebbert helped establish UWW as a team that would be a force to be reckoned with in the WVC.
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Class of 2003 |
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Greg DeJong - Right Side Hitter - UW-La Crosse - 1991-1994 |
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Greg DeJong was a member of the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse men's team from 1991-1994 as a 4-year starter on the rightside in addition to serving his team as a captain for the 1993 & 1994 seasons.
In 1991 & 1992 UW-LaCrosse competed in the Northern Intercollegiate Volleyball Conference (NIVC). While in the NIVC, Greg helped lead the Eagles to an undefeated regular season in 1992 and a 3rd Place finish at the season ending Conference Tournament.
Greg competed in the WVC during the 1993 & 1994 seasons. He was in integral part in the team's 2nd place finish in the WVC inaugural season. In 1994, Greg helped UW-La Crosse to a regular season 1st Place finish and a 2nd Place finish in the WVC State Championships.
During three of Greg's four seasons UW-LaCrosse competed at the NIRSA Championships. He culminated his career with a 5th place National finish at Arizona State.
Greg was the ultimate teammate. He always placed team accomplishments ahead of individual achievements. In 1994, Greg won the WVC's MVP Award. He was a go-to player in all respects of the game. Greg's serve receive passing allowed his team to sideout at a very proficient rate. His ability to terminate on offense from the right side was as effective out of the front-row as well as the back-row. His jump serve lead to many easy points, and his defensive play was second to none in the conference.
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Paul Hammen - Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 1994-1998 |
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As a member of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh men's volleyball team from 1994 - 1998, Paul Hammen established himself as one of the premier middle blockers in WVC history. During this time, Paul was a key figure in the team's rise to prominence on the national collegiate volleyball scene.
While dominating the middle for Oshkosh, the Titans collected 2 WVC State Championships (1997-98) and a NIRSA Division II National Championship (1996).
In his final season, Paul amassed 471 kills and a .478 hitting percentage to help the Titans to a 5th place finish in the 1998 NIRSA Division I Championship. Along the way, Paul was named WVC 1st-Team All-Conference twice (1997-98), 2nd-Team once (1996), WVC Conference Tournament MVP twice (1997-98) and NIRSA Division II All-American once (1996).
Aside from all of the accolades, Paul defined what it meant to be a teammate. He only knows one level of effort 110%. Whether it was at the national tournament or practice, you could count on Paul to give you his all every time. He's a man of few words, but his lead-by-example style made him popular with his teammates and opponents alike. What's more important, his presence on the court made those around him better players and better people.
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Class of 2002 |
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Jim Boos - Left Side Hitter/Setter/Middle Blocker - UW-Oshkosh - 1993-1994, 1996-1998 |
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Jim Boos, a co-founder of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh men's volleyball program, participated in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference from 1993-1994 and from 1996-1998 at the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. During the years that Jim competed at UW-Oshkosh, he took the Titans to the top of the WVC and established them as a national powerhouse.
Jim was a member of the Titan's first WVC State Championship team in 1997, and repeated the feat in 1998. Jim led UW-Oshkosh to the 1996 NIRSA Division II National Championship, the only national title ever won by a WVC team. In 1998, he led the Titans to a fifth place finish in the Division I NIRSA National Championships, one of only two WVC teams to ever finish this high.
Jim was named WVC First-Team All-Conference four times in three different positions. Jim received the nod as a setter, a leftside hitter and as a middle blocker. In 1997 he was named the WVC's Most Valuable Player, and was also selected to the very first WVC State Championships "All Tournament Team" in 1992.
Jim was an important contributor to the WVC off the court as well, as the Titan's joined the WVC in 1993, the first year a full conference schedule was played. Jim served on the original committees that established the WVC, and was instrumental in the conference's rise to national prominence.
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Scott Halbleib - Middle Blocker - UW-Whitewater - 1992-1994 |
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As one of the first members to be inducted into the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Hall of Fame, Scott Halbleib (Middle Blocker - Middleton, WI) played at UW-Whitewater from 1992 to 1994. One of the original WVC standouts, Halbleib was a first-team All-WVC selection in 1993 and 1994, and was also selected to the 1992 All-Tournament team at the first ever Wisconsin State Championships held in Stevens Point. While Halbleib was at UW-Whitewater, he was a key component of a Warhawk squad that won the first two Regular Season WVC Championships as well as finishing first in the WVC Conference Tournament in 1993 and 1994.
In 1993, UW-Whitewater finished 26th in Division I in it's first trip ever to the Collegiate Club Volleyball Championships at the University of Texas, defeating Texas and Maryland on their way to a second place finish in the DI consolation bracket. In 1994, UW-Whitewater finished a then school-best 9th place in Division I at the Collegiate Club Volleyball Championships at Arizona State University, defeating Illinois and Baylor on it's way to the gold bracket before losing to Sacramento State in the Sweet Sixteen round of the National tournament.
Halbleib was an intense competitor known for his intimidating block, deadly floater serve, his ability to step up in pressure situations and his incomparability as a middle hitter in transition. In addition to his playing acumen, Halbleib is regarded as one of the principal figures in the elevation of the club volleyball program at UW-Whitewater due to his initial membership and subsequent recruitment of the core group of volleyball athletes that dominated the early years of the WVC.
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Mike Radtke - Left Side Hitter - UW-Platteville - 1993-1996, UW-Oshkosh - 1997-1999 |
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Mike Radtke, a member of University of Wisconsin-Platteville men's volleyball team from 1993-1996 and University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh from 1997-1999, was one of the most dominant players ever in the WVC. In 1995 and 1996 he was named the WVC's Most Valuable Player, and is one of only two players to earn the WVC Most Valuable Player award twice. In 1997 and 1998 he garnered WVC First Team honors as well.
Mike was a product of a solid program at UW-Platteville, and as he developed, the Pioneers began their run as the best team in the WVC. Mike was unblockable from the left side, played with emotion and confidence, and earned the respect of every player he ever completed against.
He led UW-Platteville to the WVC State Championship in 1995 and helped UW-Oshkosh capture two of their four consecutive titles in 1997 and 1998. In 1998, he led the Titans to a fifth place finish in the Division I NIRSA National Championships. This is tied for the highest Division I finish ever by a WVC team.
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