Loyola Chicago Mens Volleyball Team Overview

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The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division I scene, boasting a rich history of excellence and a strong reputation for producing talented players. Located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, the team has been a part of the Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) since 2013 and has consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation.

History of the Program

The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball program was established in 1996, and since then, the team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs. However, under the guidance of head coach Mark Hulse, the team has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, culminating in several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. The Ramblers have won four MVC championships and have appeared in the NCAA tournament five times, including a quarterfinal appearance in 2014.

Current Team and Players

The current Loyola Chicago men's volleyball team is a talented and diverse group of student-athletes, comprising players from various parts of the country and the world. The team is led by head coach Mark Hulse, who has been at the helm since 2011. Under his guidance, the team has developed a strong team culture and a winning mentality.

Some of the key players on the team include:

• Will Tischler, a junior outside hitter from Laguna Beach, California, who has been named to the MVC All-Tournament Team twice.
• Cole Schlothauer, a senior middle blocker from Kearney, Nebraska, who has been named MVC Defensive Player of the Week multiple times.
• Ryder Kwait, a sophomore libero from Newport Beach, California, who has been named MVC Freshman of the Week twice.

Coaching Staff

The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball coaching staff is a highly experienced and accomplished group of individuals who have a deep understanding of the game and a passion for developing young players. The staff includes:

• Mark Hulse, Head Coach
• Matt Werle, Associate Head Coach
• Jake Rybinski, Assistant Coach

Facilities and Training

The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball team trains and competes at the Gentile Arena, a state-of-the-art facility that features a 4,963-seat arena and a 6,000-square-foot training area. The Gentile Arena is considered one of the premier volleyball venues in the country, hosting numerous NCAA tournament matches and conference championships.

The team also has access to a range of top-notch training facilities, including a strength and conditioning center, a sports medicine center, and a nutrition and fueling center. These facilities provide the team with the resources and support they need to perform at their best.

Community Involvement and Outreach

The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball team is committed to giving back to the community and engaging in outreach activities that promote the sport of volleyball and support local youth. The team regularly participates in clinics, camps, and community events, providing young players with the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and players.

Some of the community involvement initiatives undertaken by the team include:

• Hosting annual youth volleyball camps and clinics
• Partnering with local schools and community organizations to promote volleyball and physical activity
• Participating in charity events and fundraisers to support local causes

Alumni and Professional Players

The Loyola Chicago men's volleyball team has a strong tradition of producing talented players who go on to compete at the professional level. Some notable alumni include:

• Thomas Jaeschke, a 2015 graduate who currently plays for the Polish club, Asseco Resovia Rzeszow.
• Joe Smalzer, a 2013 graduate who currently plays for the German club, Berlin Recycling Volleys.
• Nicholas Olson, a 2012 graduate who currently plays for the Italian club, Sir Safety Perugia.

Gallery of Loyola Chicago Men's Volleyball Team