Join us as we chat with NCAA Division III volleyball coach John Ellman about his journey from a beach volleyball enthusiast to a national champion coach. Discover the secrets behind his success, the growth of women's volleyball, and inspiring stories from his coaching career.

Takeaways
Success in volleyball can start from anywhere, even a grass court with windsurfing poles.
Building a strong team culture and community support is key to sustained success.
Facilities and local support can rival those of larger programs.
Recruitment is about relationships and culture fit, not just rankings.
Adversity and slip-ups teach valuable lessons and build resilience.
Winning a national championship is a culmination of consistent effort and innovation.
The growth of women's volleyball is driven by increased athleticism and training.
Division III programs can offer competitive facilities and passionate fan bases.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Welcome
02:56
John Ellmann's Coaching Journey
05:35
Cultural Impact on Team Success
08:35
The Evolution of Women's Volleyball
11:39
Reflections on Achievements
14:23
The State of Division III Volleyball
17:06
Personal Journey into Volleyball
20:02
Coaching Beginnings and Philosophy
20:05
The Journey Begins: Coaching Opportunities
23:34
Passion Over Experience: The Path to Coaching
26:15
Learning Through Experience: The Role of Mentorship
29:18
Building a Championship Team: The 2025 Season
37:34
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Program
41:20
NIL and Scholarships in D3 Sports
43:40
Facilities and Community Engagement in D3 Volleyball
45:17
Memorable Coaching Stories and Experiences
49:20
Connecting with Legends: Personal Stories in Volleyball
51:20
Warm-Up Techniques and Coaching Philosophy

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Riley Salmon, an Olympic gold medalist and Hall of Famer, shares his inspiring journey from a non-traditional volleyball background in Texas to Olympic glory. Discover how perseverance, mentorship, and a relentless mindset can transform lives and careers. Join us as Riley Salmon shares his inspiring journey from a young volleyball enthusiast to an Olympic gold medalist. Discover insights on mindset, perseverance, and the importance of gratitude in sports and life.

Key topics

Riley Salmon's unconventional path to volleyball success
The role of mentorship and mentorship in sports
The importance of mindset, discipline, and accountability in achieving goals Riley Salmon's journey to Olympic gold
The importance of mindset and perseverance
Gratitude and its role in success

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties
02:44 Riley Salmon's Journey to Volleyball
05:36 The Evolution of the Pipe to BIC
08:26 Riley's High School Experience and Discovery of Volleyball
11:31 Transition to College Volleyball at Pierce College
14:13 The Impact of Big Daddy on Riley's Life
16:54 Commitment to Team and Personal Growth
18:09 Remembering Coach Big Daddy
20:41 Turning Point: From Delinquency to Discipline
23:44 The Journey to the Olympic Team
34:51 Instilling an Elite Mindset in Athletes
42:07 The Impact of Technology on Youth Sports
44:40 Competitive Spirit and Mental Resilience
47:05 Transitioning to Coaching and Mentorship
49:54 The Role of a Coach in Personal Development
53:53 The Emotional Journey of Representing Your Country
58:42 The Drive to Succeed Against All Odds
01:06:04 The Importance of Direct Communication in Coaching
01:07:21 Building Mental Fortitude and Team Dynamics
01:09:03 Embracing Opportunities and Proving Yourself
01:10:19 The Role of the Second Side in Team Success
01:11:59 Cultural Influences in Volleyball: Brazil vs. Russia
01:15:02 Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
01:18:37 Gratitude in Sports: A Hall of Fame Perspective

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Join us as we explore Dylan Mulvaney's incredible journey from a high school player in Virginia to a Division III National Champion and MVP. Discover insights on team dynamics, overcoming adversity, and the future of volleyball.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:49
Dylan Mulvaney's Collegiate Achievements
04:05
Reflections on Winning the Championship
07:45
The Role of Family and Coaching in Development
12:33
Memorable Matches and Overcoming Challenges
20:50
Transition from College to Professional Volleyball
23:43
Future Goals and Overseas Opportunities
34:01
The Impact of Culture and Language Abroad
38:12
Injury and Recovery Story
48:24
Coaching, Mentorship, and Giving Back
52:19
Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Athletes

Resources

Springfield College Volleyball Program - https://springfield.edu/athletics/volleyball
Dylan Mulvaney's Instagram - https://instagram.com/dylanmulvaney
Frog Jump Volleyball Awards - https://frogjump.com/awards
USA Volleyball - https://usavolleyball.org/
Bruno Romanotti (Agent) - https://linkedin.com/in/brunoromanotti

Support the show

Instagram
instagram.com/setthepipe

TikTok
x.com/SETTHEPIPE

Spotify
open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw

Spotify
...