The world of college athletics is home to numerous exciting sports, and volleyball is no exception. One team that has been making waves in the collegiate volleyball scene is the Lawrence Technological University (LTU) Men's Volleyball Team. In this article, we'll delve into the team's history, achievements, and what makes them a force to be reckoned with in the world of men's volleyball.
History of the Program
The Lawrence Technological University Men's Volleyball Team was established in 2013, making it a relatively new program in the collegiate volleyball landscape. Despite its relatively short history, the team has quickly made a name for itself, thanks to the dedication of its players, coaches, and staff. The team competes in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) and has been a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) since its inception.
Coaching Staff
The success of any sports team can be attributed to its coaching staff, and the LTU Men's Volleyball Team is no exception. The team is led by Head Coach Kevin McCollum, who has been at the helm since the program's inception. Coach McCollum brings a wealth of experience to the team, having coached at various levels, including high school, club, and collegiate volleyball. His expertise and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the team into the competitive force it is today.
Team Achievements
The LTU Men's Volleyball Team has achieved significant success in its short history. Some of the team's notable achievements include:
- Winning the WHAC Championship in 2018 and 2020
- Receiving a bid to the NAIA National Tournament in 2019 and 2020
- Being ranked in the top 20 of the NAIA national rankings in 2020
- Producing multiple All-American players and WHAC Players of the Year
Player Profiles
The LTU Men's Volleyball Team is comprised of talented players from diverse backgrounds. Some of the team's standout players include:
- Outside Hitter, Jake Schultz, who was named WHAC Player of the Year in 2020
- Setter, Tyler Walters, who was named to the All-WHAC First Team in 2020
- Middle Blocker, Cole Peterson, who was named to the All-WHAC Second Team in 2020
Recruitment and Tryouts
The LTU Men's Volleyball Team is always on the lookout for talented players to join its roster. The team holds annual tryouts, which are open to high school and junior college players. The coaching staff also attends various volleyball showcases and tournaments to scout out top talent.
What to Expect at Tryouts
Players who attend tryouts can expect a comprehensive evaluation of their skills and abilities. The coaching staff will assess players' techniques, athleticism, and overall volleyball IQ. Players will also have the opportunity to showcase their skills in game-like situations and receive feedback from the coaching staff.
Facilities and Training
The LTU Men's Volleyball Team trains and competes in the state-of-the-art Ridler Field House, which features a regulation-sized volleyball court, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and seating for over 1,000 fans. The team also has access to top-notch training facilities, including a strength and conditioning room and a athletic training room.
Training Regimen
The team's training regimen is designed to optimize player performance and development. Players participate in a combination of strength and conditioning exercises, technical drills, and game-like scenarios to prepare them for competition. The coaching staff also emphasizes the importance of nutrition, recovery, and mental preparation to ensure players are performing at their best.
Academics and Community Involvement
The LTU Men's Volleyball Team is committed to excellence not only on the court but also in the classroom. The team boasts a strong academic record, with multiple players earning All-Academic honors. The team is also involved in various community outreach initiatives, including volunteering at local food banks and participating in youth volleyball clinics.
Community Outreach Initiatives
The team's community outreach initiatives are designed to promote the sport of volleyball and give back to the local community. Players participate in various events, including:
- Youth volleyball clinics and camps
- Food drives and volunteer work at local food banks
- Visiting hospitals and nursing homes to promote volleyball and interact with patients and residents
What conference does the Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team compete in?
+The Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team competes in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC).
How can I try out for the Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team?
+The Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team holds annual tryouts, which are open to high school and junior college players. You can contact the coaching staff for more information on tryout dates and requirements.
What are the team's practice and training facilities like?
+The Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team trains and competes in the state-of-the-art Ridler Field House, which features a regulation-sized volleyball court, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and seating for over 1,000 fans. The team also has access to top-notch training facilities, including a strength and conditioning room and a athletic training room.
We hope you've enjoyed this overview of the Lawrence Tech Men's Volleyball Team. From its history and achievements to its recruitment and training processes, the team is a force to be reckoned with in the world of collegiate volleyball. Whether you're a prospective player, a fan, or simply interested in learning more about the team, we encourage you to follow the team's journey and support them in their future endeavors.