UCLA Men’s Volleyball Reclaims Dominance in College Sports

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UCLA Men's Volleyball team displaying teamwork during a match.

News Summary

The UCLA men’s volleyball team has solidified its reputation as a premier program in college athletics by achieving 21 national championships since its inception. Under the leadership of coach John Hawks, the team has reached the national championship game for the third consecutive year, showcasing the strength of individual players like Ethan Champlin. With a strong culture of teamwork and alumni support, UCLA continues to honor its winning legacy while building lasting relationships among its athletes.

Los Angeles – The UCLA men’s volleyball team has reestablished itself as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics, achieving a stunning number of 21 national championships since its inception in 1970. This impressive record solidifies its position as the most successful program in the storied history of UCLA Athletics, which has garnered a total of 124 NCAA national championships across all sports.

This resurgence in volleyball excellence comes as the Bruins recently reached the national championship game for the third consecutive year, following two championship wins in previous seasons. The team’s early successes in the 2024 tournament not only highlighted their determination but also showcased the talent of individual players such as Ethan Champlin, who was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. His contributions were pivotal in ending a nearly 20-year championship drought for UCLA.

UCLA men’s volleyball, steeped in tradition and camaraderie, has cultivated an atmosphere centered around both athletic achievement and personal growth. Former outside hitter Champlin emphasized that the culture of winning at UCLA is deeply intertwined with the friendships and bonds formed among teammates. The team often shares significant life milestones, as evidenced by Champlin inviting his entire team to his wedding, a gesture that mirrors the strong sense of brotherhood that permeates the program.

At the helm of the program is current head coach John Hawks, who has been integral to the team’s success since he took over. In his debut year, he led the Bruins to a national title appearance, reinforcing his reputation as a leader in the sport. His coaching prowess is backed by a notable achievement in his previous role as the AVCA National Assistant Coach of the Year, where he played a key role in achieving the highest hitting percentage in the nation.

The legacy of UCLA men’s volleyball can be traced back through its former coaching greats, including Al Scates, who guided the team to 19 national titles and has had a lasting influence on the development of volleyball across the nation. Additionally, John Speraw’s tenure from 2013 to 2024 saw the Bruins capture 10 championships and he is credited with significant contributions to the sport as a coach, even leading the men’s Olympic team. Post-2024 Paris Olympics, Speraw transitioned to become the CEO and president of USA Volleyball, further solidifying his impact on the sport.

The tradition of success is not only marked by wins on the court but also by the thriving relationships teams maintain with their alumni. Current players such as sophomore outside hitter Luca Curci have noted the importance of these bonds, as alumni remain connected through events and contributions to the program. The influence of former players extends to national and Olympic teams, with notable figures such as Erik Sullivan and Karch Kiraly playing crucial roles in shaping future generations of athletes.

The Bruins’ journey is characterized by a steadfast commitment to not just performance, but to the values of teamwork and unity. Junior libero Coleman McDonough has expressed pride in carrying forward Scates’ legacy, underlining the importance of maintaining these ideals. Teammates regularly demonstrate selflessness, fostering an environment where each player is valued, further strengthening the foundation upon which UCLA men’s volleyball stands.

As UCLA continues to perform on the national stage, it remains dedicated to upholding a legacy that honors both athletic achievement and the deep friendships forged by its athletes. The Bruins stand ready to embrace the future while celebrating their storied past—a commitment that promises to keep them at the forefront of collegiate volleyball.