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In this engaging conversation, Nick McCrae, the new head coach of Long Beach State's men's volleyball team, shares insights into his coaching philosophy, the challenges of modern athletics, and the importance of building a strong team culture. He discusses the impact of NIL on college sports, the significance of family support, and his aspirations for the future of the program. The dialogue emphasizes the need for hard work, dedication, and the value of mentorship in shaping young athletes' lives. Takeaways Nick McCrae emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in sports. The transition from assistant to head coach involves maintaining a winning culture. Coaching today requires adapting to modern challenges like NIL and the transfer portal. Building relationships and community support is crucial for athlete development. Understanding individual roles within a team is key to success. Recruiting should focus on fit and culture rather than just talent. NIL presents both opportunities and challenges for college athletes. Family support plays a significant role in a coach's success. Long Beach State has a rich tradition in volleyball that continues to thrive. Sound bites "I'm so fired up for you personally." "It's my absolute honor to join you." "Family support is crucial for success." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 02:54 Coaching Philosophy and Modern Challenges 05:50 The Importance of Team Culture 08:50 Recruiting Insights and Parental Perspectives 11:37 Transitioning Leadership and Maintaining Success 24:28 Navigating Emotions in Team Dynamics 25:52 Building Connections and Support Systems 27:18 The Blue Collar Mentality in Volleyball 28:24 Setting Goals and Aspirations for Players 29:20 The Importance of Mentorship and Opportunities 35:34 Being a Lighthouse: Coaching Philosophy 38:22 Adapting Coaching Styles and Pillars of Success 44:54 Family Support and Legacy in Coaching 52:41 The Role of Coaches in Shaping Lives 53:26 Navigating NIL and the Transfer Portal 58:57 Building a Supportive Environment for Athletes Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this engaging conversation, Dana Cooke shares her remarkable journey through the world of volleyball, reflecting on her experiences as a player and coach. The discussion delves into the cultural differences between volleyball in Canada and the USA, the impact of youth sports on personal development, and the challenges faced by young athletes today. Dana emphasizes the importance of resilience in overcoming injuries and the role of money in shaping the sports landscape. The conversation also touches on the effects of the transfer portal on college athletics and the future of amateur sports, highlighting the need for change in how youth sports are structured and valued. In this engaging conversation, Dana shares her experiences and insights from her volleyball career, discussing the drive to win, team dynamics, and the importance of versatility in training. She reflects on memorable matches, the pressure of expectations, and the cultural differences in training methods. Dana emphasizes the need for youth development in volleyball and the role of coaching in skill enhancement, while also addressing the differences between men's and women's volleyball. The discussion concludes with reflections on her journey and future plans in the sport. Dana reflects on her volleyball journey and accomplishments. The importance of resilience in overcoming injuries. Differences in volleyball culture between Canada and the USA. The role of money in shaping sports today. The significance of camaraderie in sports teams. The effects of the transfer portal on college athletics. Future considerations for amateur sports. Winning is a mindset; losing can be a powerful motivator. Team dynamics are crucial; every player has a unique contribution. Memorable matches shape a player's career and legacy. Expectations can create pressure, but they can also inspire performance. Training challenges require mental resilience and adaptability. Versatility in training prepares athletes for various roles. Coaching plays a significant role in skill development and athlete growth. Understanding the differences between men's and women's volleyball is vital for appreciation of the sport. Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode, Dr. Anitra Brockman shares her journey from coaching high school volleyball to becoming the head coach of the new men's volleyball program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). She discusses the challenges and strategies involved in building a new program, the importance of mentorship, and her approach to recruitment. Dr. Brockman emphasizes the need for community support in growing men's volleyball and expresses her aspirations for the program's future success. The conversation highlights the collaborative spirit among men's volleyball coaches and the exciting growth of the sport. Dr. Anitra Brockman is the head coach of the new men's volleyball program at UMES. She transitioned from coaching high school and women's volleyball to men's Division I. Building a new program involves strategic recruitment and setting clear expectations. Mentorship from experienced coaches has been crucial in her development. The importance of community support in growing men's volleyball is emphasized. Dr. Brockman values both international and stateside players in her recruitment strategy. She aims to create a competitive and successful program within five years. The growth of men's volleyball is evident, with increasing participation rates. Dr. Brockman is focused on developing her players both on and off the court. The podcast highlights the collaborative nature of men's volleyball coaching. "Building a new program is a challenge." "I want us to have a 500 season." "I have a soft spot for stateside kids." Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode, the hosts welcome Jose Pina, the head coach of NYU's men's volleyball team. They discuss his extensive background in volleyball, the importance of community and teamwork in the sport, and his coaching philosophy. Jose reflects on the challenges and successes of recent seasons, the impact of COVID on recruitment and team dynamics, and his outlook for the upcoming season. The conversation also touches on the balance between academics and athletics at NYU, and the future of volleyball in the Northeast. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the growth of volleyball in the U.S., particularly focusing on men's volleyball at the collegiate level. They explore strategies for increasing visibility and exposure for the sport, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and advocacy. The discussion also touches on the need to sell the power and athleticism of men's volleyball to attract new fans and grow the game further. The speakers reflect on the evolution of the sport and express hope for its future development. takeaways Volleyball fosters a strong sense of community. Coaching is about imparting knowledge and values. Team dynamics are crucial for success. Winning culture is built over time. Recruitment is focused on both athletic and academic excellence. COVID has significantly impacted recruitment and team morale. NYU attracts talent due to its academic reputation. The balance between sports and academics is essential. Future seasons will focus on developing new talent. The growth of volleyball in the Northeast is promising. The growth of volleyball in the U.S. is significant, especially in regions like Florida and Texas. Community engagement is crucial for increasing visibility and support for men's volleyball. The women's game has seen immense growth, which can serve as a model for men's volleyball. Selling the power and athleticism of the game can attract new fans. Collegiate programs need to advocate for themselves to gain more exposure. Youth involvement is essential for the future of the sport. Visibility in media is key to attracting new audiences.  "We need more advocates." "It's war. It's war." Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode, Sully, CK and Bear interview the CEO of Slunks, Chris Reames and Let's Keep The Ball Flying, Lesley DeJonge and Viola Tonello. A pretty amazing story of wanting something more and giving back. LKTBF is currently touring the US and they talk about their worldly ambition. Slunks is a HUGE partner in what they are doing. This is an important podcast for our volleyball community. Enjoy. LKTBF.org getslunks.com Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this engaging conversation, Kylie Doremus shares her inspiring journey as a young athlete in sitting volleyball. Born with fibular hemimelia, she faced significant challenges, including an amputation below the knee. Despite these obstacles, Kylie found her passion in sitting volleyball, where she excelled and recently won a gold medal at the Pan Am Games. The discussion covers her training regimen, the transition from standing to sitting volleyball, and her aspirations to join the women's national team. Kylie's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of sports to overcome adversity. In this engaging conversation, Kylee Doremus shares her journey in sitting volleyball, discussing the growth of the sport, the challenges of competing with a prosthetic, and her aspirations for the Olympics. The dialogue explores the dynamics of team building, the intricacies of the game rules, and the personal experiences that shape an athlete's life. Kylee's passion and determination shine through as she reflects on her recent gold medal win and the supportive community surrounding her. Takeaways Kylie Doremus is a gold medalist in sitting volleyball. She was born with fibular hemimelia and had her leg amputated below the knee. Kylie transitioned from standing volleyball to sitting volleyball after feeling discriminated against. She practices sitting volleyball twice a week and trains with the national development team. Kylie aims to join the women's national team and compete in the Olympics. Kylie started playing volleyball in sixth grade and quickly fell in love with the sport. Kylie trains at the University of Central Oklahoma, which is also the training site for USA Sitting Volleyball. Her story inspires young athletes, especially those with disabilities. The development team for sitting volleyball is growing, with a waitlist now. Kylee's journey to the Olympics is fueled by hard work and belief in herself. Traveling for competitions offers invaluable experiences and memories. The food and culture in Chile were highlights of the trip for Kylee. Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

The conversation explores the potential of young athletes in basketball, the excitement surrounding women's volleyball, particularly during the Elite Eight and upcoming Final Four. The hosts discuss the growth of viewership in women's sports, the intensity of volleyball matches, and provide insights into the teams competing in the Final Four, highlighting their strengths and challenges. Takeaways: Young athletes can excel in multiple sports with dedication. Women's volleyball is gaining significant viewership and popularity. The intensity of volleyball matches can be compared to heavyweight fights. Experience in high-pressure matches is invaluable for teams. The growth of women's sports is evident in viewership numbers. Final Four teams have unique strengths and challenges ahead. Coaching plays a crucial role in team success during tournaments. The excitement of women's volleyball is attracting new fans. The importance of supporting women's sports is highlighted. The upcoming matches promise to be thrilling and competitive. Sound bites "It was a heavyweight fight." "You can't buy that experience." "Set the pipe, baby." Chapters 00:00 The Rise of Women's Volleyball 02:46 Final Four Showdown: Texas A&M vs. Pitt 05:34 Nebraska's Upset and Its Implications 08:37 The Power of Coaching in Volleyball 11:13 Wisconsin's Consistency and Talent 14:00 Kentucky's Journey to the Final Four 16:46 Pitt's Challenge and Expectations 19:37 The Future of Women's Volleyball Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this conversation, Andrea Becker, a professor of sports psychology, discusses her journey in the field and the importance of mental coaching in sports. She emphasizes the need for team unity, the balance of nature and nurture in athletic development, and the cultural shifts needed in youth sports. The conversation highlights the pressures young athletes face and the role of coaches and parents in fostering a positive environment for development. In this conversation, Andrea discusses the complexities of coaching, particularly focusing on the importance of team culture, the challenges of managing players with bad attitudes, and the necessity of instilling resilience and self-worth in young athletes. She emphasizes the need for coaches to be empathetic and to create an environment that fosters growth and development, both mentally and physically. The dialogue also touches on the importance of comprehensive education for athletes, including mental skills training and the development of a strong sense of self. Takeaways Performance psychology focuses on enhancing athletes' mental skills. Team unity and a shared purpose are crucial for success. Youth sports culture often prioritizes competition over enjoyment. Athletes need to learn how to cope with pressure effectively. Coaches should focus on development rather than just winning. The focus should be on fun and development, not just scholarships. If your best player has a bad attitude, you have a bad culture. You can't endorse a bad attitude without compromising team culture. At the youth level, we need to correct behaviors and attitudes. Coaching should focus on developing young people holistically. Best attitude, best effort, and best teammate are key values for athletes. Toughness is about performing well in imperfect conditions. Kids need to learn basic life skills to develop independence. Trust is essential for effective coaching relationships. Empathy in coaching creates a positive environment for athletes. Sound bites "You have a bad culture." "It's a non-negotiable." "We can't make those promises." Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this conversation, Kevin Barnett shares his journey from a late start in volleyball to becoming a two-time Olympian and a prominent figure in the sport. He reflects on his early experiences, the challenges faced during his Olympic appearances, and the importance of team dynamics and leadership. Kevin discusses the impact of training environments on performance, cultural changes within the national team, and his experiences playing professionally abroad. He emphasizes personal growth, the interconnectedness of the volleyball community, and the lessons learned throughout his career. In this engaging conversation, Kevin Barnett, a two-time Olympian and broadcaster, discusses the evolution of volleyball training, the differences between American and European systems, and the importance of mental toughness in competition. He shares insights on the transition from athlete to broadcaster, the growth of women's volleyball, and the need for better youth training programs. The discussion also touches on the authenticity required in sports broadcasting and the potential for a dedicated degree for athletes. Barnett emphasizes the importance of community support and investment in the sport to ensure its continued growth and success. Sound bites "I didn't know I was gonna stay." "I was a stay-at-home dad." "Never apologize for greatness." Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode of 'Set the Pipe,' hosts Sully, CK, and Bear discuss the excitement surrounding the Sweet 16 in women's volleyball, highlighting Cal Poly's impressive performance and the retirement of legendary coaches. They also delve into the challenges of the transfer portal in college sports, emphasizing the need for regulations and the impact on athletes and programs. The conversation touches on the broader implications of loyalty and professionalism in college athletics, with passionate discussions about recent decisions by major programs like Notre Dame. Takeaways Cal Poly's unexpected success in the Sweet 16 is a major highlight. The retirement of legendary coaches marks the end of an era. The transfer portal is causing significant challenges in college sports. There is a call for more regulations to manage the transfer portal. Loyalty in college sports is being questioned amid financial incentives. Notre Dame's decision to decline a bowl game sparked controversy. The conversation emphasizes the need for professionalism in college athletics. The impact of the transfer portal on mid-major programs is significant. The episode features passionate discussions about the state of college sports. The hosts express concern over the future of amateur athletics. Sound bites Cal Poly's unexpected success! Legendary coaches retire. Transfer portal challenges college sports. Call for transfer portal regulations. Loyalty questioned amid financial incentives. Notre Dame's bowl game controversy. Need for professionalism in college athletics. Impact on mid-major programs. Passionate discussions on college sports. Future of amateur athletics in question. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Sweet 16 Highlights 00:00:00 Coaching Retirements and Legacy 00:00:00 Transfer Portal Challenges 00:00:00 Loyalty and Professionalism in College Sports 00:00:00 Notre Dame's Controversial Decision 00:00:00 Future of College Athletics Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

Long Beach State Men's Volleyball Head Coach Alan Knipe has announced that he will retire at the end of the calendar year following an extraordinary 25-year career spanning both his time as a standout student-athlete and his tenure as one of the most celebrated coaches in Long Beach State history. Knipe was recently selected as a member of the Class of 2025 for induction into the AVCA Hall of Fame, national recognition for his accomplishments on the collegiate and international level. That comes on the heels of his induction into the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame as well as his induction both as a player and as part of the 1991 National Championship team into the Long Beach State Athletics Hall of Fame. Long Beach State Men's Volleyball is coming off of an outstanding season which saw the Beach claim a fourth NCAA Men's Volleyball national championship. A transformative figure for Long Beach State, Knipe has been a part of all four of those championships, winning as a player in 1991 before collecting three more trophies as the head coach in 2018, 2019 and 2025. Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode, the hosts reflect on their gratitude for family, friends, and the journey of their podcast. They share personal stories of growth, the joy of reconnecting with volleyball, and the excitement surrounding upcoming tournaments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the love for the sport, and the impact of relationships in their lives. In this conversation, the speakers reflect on themes of gratitude, aging, and the impact of pets in their lives. They share personal stories about their health, rekindling friendships, and the importance of family connections. The discussion also touches on the significance of volleyball in their lives, including statistics and records, and concludes with appreciation for their guests and listeners. In this episode, the hosts discuss the evolution of women's volleyball, highlighting the excitement and growth of the game. They share insights from high school volleyball, including recent championship highlights, and delve into the historical records held by notable players. The conversation shifts to the impact of rally scoring on the game and the art of serving, particularly the effectiveness of float serves. The episode concludes with a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the sport and the connections it has fostered among the hosts. Chapters 00:00 Thanksgiving Reflections 02:59 Gratitude for the Podcast Journey 06:02 The Love for Volleyball 08:59 Personal Stories of Gratitude 12:06 Family and Life Changes 14:51 Excitement for Upcoming Volleyball Tournaments 18:00 Celebrating Achievements and Growth 25:13 Reflections on Aging and Pets 27:17 Gratitude and Family Connections 29:40 Health and Well-being 31:49 Rekindling Old Friendships 34:32 The Impact of Volleyball on Lives 39:15 Statistics and Records in Volleyball 40:45 Appreciation for Guests and Listeners 41:11 The Evolution of Women's Volleyball 42:59 High School Volleyball Highlights 43:32 Record Holders in Volleyball History 45:30 The Impact of Rally Scoring 49:01 The Art of Serving in Volleyball 51:03 Gratitude for Volleyball's Journey Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this conversation, Tracy Dahl, head coach of Cal Poly Pomona's volleyball team, shares her journey from a successful player to a distinguished coach. She discusses her coaching philosophy, the challenges of recruitment, and the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on Division II volleyball. Tracy emphasizes the importance of building a strong team culture and the growth of women's volleyball, highlighting the competitive nature of her conference and her aspirations for her program. The conversation also touches on the balance between athletics and academics, and the future of volleyball as a sport. In this conversation, Traci Dahl reflects on her journey from a promising volleyball career to coaching, discussing her regrets, the challenges of recruiting, and the importance of building a positive team culture. She shares insights on the grind of coaching, the role of parental involvement in athlete development, and the potential changes in NCAA eligibility rules. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics and the commitment required from both coaches and players to succeed. Sound Bites "The days are gone where we're just student athletes." "It's fantastic to see the game grow." "I think that there's just more to come." "I would have gone to Spain and played." "I started living what I thought was life." "You have to trust the system." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tracy Dahl and Her Journey 02:59 Coaching Philosophy and Team Culture 05:59 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges 09:02 The Impact of the Transfer Portal and NIL 11:55 Comparing Division I and Division II Volleyball 15:00 The Growth of Women's Volleyball 18:02 Building a Winning Program at Cal Poly Pomona 20:59 The Future of Volleyball and Player Development 23:49 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks 33:42 Reflecting on Career Choices 36:00 Transitioning to Coaching 39:08 Recruiting Challenges in Volleyball 41:08 The Grind of Coaching 44:01 Building a Winning Culture 49:04 Navigating Parental Involvement 52:08 Future of NCAA Eligibility 57:07 Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode, the hosts discuss personal stories, family milestones, and the latest updates in women's volleyball. They reflect on the emotional aspects of life, share injury recovery stories, and analyze team chemistry and strategies. The conversation highlights the growth of women's volleyball, the impact of international players, and the upcoming matches and events. The episode concludes with a celebration of USA volleyball's success and a look forward to future episodes. takeaways Life is a mix of joy and sorrow. Team chemistry is crucial for success. Emerging talent is reshaping women's volleyball. Injuries can be a significant hurdle for athletes. The growth of women's volleyball is exciting to witness. Personal stories add depth to sports discussions. Celebrating family milestones is important. The impact of international players is growing. Upcoming matches will be thrilling to watch. USA volleyball continues to achieve great success. Sound Bites "Congratulations Bear!" "The sun will rise tomorrow." "She's back!" Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...

In this episode of 'Set The Pipe,' Richard and Priscilla Tallman join the hosts to discuss their experiences in volleyball, both as players and coaches. They delve into the evolution of the sport, the challenges of transitioning from college to professional play, and the importance of mental health and resilience in athletes. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences in sports training and the impact of modern analytics on the game. Priscilla Tallman: 'I taught myself how to jump serve watching Eric Sato in the 1988 Olympics.' Richard Tallman: 'The size and power in men's volleyball today is next level.' Priscilla: 'You don't know you want it until you get cut and feel that sting.' Richard: 'Men's hockey and volleyball are the most exciting sports to watch live.' Priscilla: 'I love the opportunities for women in volleyball today.' Richard: 'The club season for women's volleyball is too long.' Priscilla: 'Athletes need to learn how to transfer skills to the corporate world.' Richard: 'We truly did enjoy the college experience, but we also had each other's backs.' Priscilla: 'It's important to push athletes in a compassionate way.' Richard: 'Finding balance in training is crucial for longevity in sports.' Support the show Instagram instagram.com/setthepipe TikTok x.com/SETTHEPIPE Spotify open.spotify.com/show/6vzpcOYw2BKWMgaR5kKWOw Spotify ...