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In this episode of Bump Set Chat, I sit down with Canadian National Team libero Kacey Jost to talk about her incredible volleyball journey — from growing up around hockey and dance, to discovering volleyball, playing at UBC, starting her professional career, earning a spot with Team Canada, and ultimately helping Canada qualify for the LA28 Olympic Games. 🇨🇦🏐 Kacey's journey is anything but traditional. We talk about her early days playing multiple sports, the importance of club volleyball, the coaches who helped shape her, and why she ultimately chose UBC and U SPORTS over pursuing NCAA volleyball in the United States. We also get into her transition from opposite to libero, what it took to adjust to the collegiate game, her first professional contract, and what life is really like playing volleyball professionally. Then we dive into Team Canada. Kacey shares what it was like finding out she was traveling with the national team, her first experiences around Canada's senior team, playing alongside some of the country's top players, and taking that next step up to international volleyball. We also talk about working with Giovanni Guidetti, her experience during VNL 2026, and some of the moments that stood out during Canada's historic run. And, of course, we talk about the moment Canada defeated the Dominican Republic to secure a spot at LA28. What was going through Kacey's mind before that match? What did it feel like when the final point was over? And what does it mean to help bring Canadian women's volleyball back to the Olympic stage? We finish with Kacey's life away from the court, pre-game rituals, mental resets, the toughest position in volleyball, the people who have influenced her career, and what's next with LOVB Madison. If you enjoy conversations with volleyball players, coaches and people working to grow the game, make sure to subscribe to Bump Set Chat. #Volleyball #KaceyJost #TeamCanada #CanadianVolleyball #LA28 #OlympicVolleyball #UBCVolleyball #VolleyballPodcast #VNL #NORCECA #LOVB #LOVBMadison #VolleyballJourney #Libero #WomensVolleyball #USPORTS

What makes a great volleyball coach? What can coaches learn from working in different volleyball cultures? And what separates an elite athlete from everyone else? On this episode of Bump Set Chat, I sit down with Brian Singh, a competitive volleyball coach with more than 20 years of experience, nearly a decade coaching at the largest college in Canada, and the founder of Digital Volleyball Academy and Nemesis Sports. Brian and I take a deep dive into his volleyball journey, from playing and coaching high school volleyball to club and college coaching, and eventually becoming one of the most recognized voices in volleyball coaching and player development. We talk about the differences between coaching volleyball in the United States and Canada, what Brian learned from being in the gyms of great coaches, how his coaching philosophy developed, and what coaches can sometimes lose sight of when working with young athletes. We also get into Brian's work with vertical jump training and some of the biggest mistakes young volleyball players make when they begin training to jump higher. And one of my favorite parts of the conversation is Brian's relationship with Daenan "Kofi" Gyimah. Brian shares what separated Kofi from other athletes, the moment he saw Kofi's potential begin to take off, and what it has been like watching the player and person Kofi has become.

Creighton Volleyball Head Coach Brian Rosen joins Bump Set Chat to share his volleyball journey and the unique path that led him from assistant coach to taking over one of the top programs in college volleyball. Brian talks about how he first got hooked on volleyball, his journey through high school, club and Division II coaching, and what brought him to Creighton. He shares what it was like working alongside legendary Creighton coach Kirsten Booth, the lessons he learned from her, and the phone call that eventually changed everything. We also discuss Brian's reaction when he learned Kirsten was leaving after 22 years, the challenge of replacing a legend, and the transition from being an assistant coach to becoming the head coach. Brian talks about honoring the culture and values that have made Creighton Volleyball so successful while also putting his own stamp on the program. Other topics include recruiting, the pressure facing freshmen, finding the right Division I, Division II or Division III fit, the transfer portal, NIL, what club volleyball can do to better prepare players, advice for younger coaches and middle blockers, and what Brian finds most rewarding about coaching. Plus, we have some fun talking about Sister Act 2, pineapple pizza, music in the gym, Target runs, and more! Thanks to Coach Rosen for taking the time to join the podcast, and good luck to the Creighton Bluejays this season! 🏐 Don't forget to like, subscribe and follow Bump Set Chat for more conversations with the people who make the volleyball world great! #Volleyball #CreightonVolleyball #CollegeVolleyball #VolleyballPodcast

In this episode, we're joined by George Mulry, Executive Director of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame (IVHF) and founder of Pioneer Valley Juniors Volleyball Club. George shares his incredible volleyball journey—from discovering the sport and developing his coaching philosophy to building one of New England's premier volleyball clubs. We dive into what separates great coaches from good ones, what parents often don't see behind the scenes, and what it takes to create a successful club culture. We also explore the fascinating history of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame, why it's located in Holyoke, Massachusetts—the birthplace of volleyball, and the story behind the invention of the sport by William G. Morgan. George explains the Hall's mission to preserve volleyball's rich history while inspiring future generations around the world. Plus, we discuss the 2026 IVHF Induction Class, the Showcase of Champions, memorable moments with volleyball legends, growing boys volleyball in New England, and how fans can support the Hall of Fame. Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or lifelong volleyball fan, this conversation is packed with stories, history, and insights you won't want to miss. In this episode:🏐 George's volleyball journey🏐 Discovering a passion for coaching🏐 Building Pioneer Valley Juniors🏐 Coaching philosophy and mentorship🏐 What great coaches do differently🏐 The history of volleyball🏐 Why the IVHF is located in Holyoke🏐 Behind the scenes of the International Volleyball Hall of Fame🏐 The 2026 Hall of Fame induction class🏐 Growing volleyball for future generations🏐 How you can support the IVHF If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help us continue bringing you conversations with the people growing the game of volleyball. Follow the International Volleyball Hall of Fame:https://www.volleyhall.org/ Follow Bump Set Chat for more volleyball interviews with players, coaches, and leaders from around the world. #Volleyball #GeorgeMulry #IVHF #VolleyballHallOfFame #BumpSetChat #Coaching #YouthVolleyball #ClubVolleyball #PioneerValleyJuniors #Holyoke #WilliamGMorgan #USAVolleyball #VolleyballHistory #GrowTheGame #VolleyballPodcast

🏐 From France to one of the top men's volleyball programs in the NCAA, Andrej Jokanovic joins Bump Set Chat to share the story behind his incredible volleyball journey. In this episode, Andrej talks about growing up in France, learning the game through the French volleyball system, and making the life-changing decision to leave home and play collegiate volleyball at UC Irvine. We discuss:🏐 How he first fell in love with volleyball🇫🇷 Growing up and developing as a player in France🎓 Why he chose UC Irvine over staying in Europe🌎 The challenges of moving across the world for college💪 Adjusting to the speed and physicality of NCAA volleyball🏆 His freshman season, earning Big West Freshman of the Year honors, and what's next for his career🇫🇷 His dreams of representing France on the senior national team If you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or fan interested in international volleyball and the path to NCAA success, you won't want to miss this conversation. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you never miss another Bump Set Chat interview! #Volleyball #AndrejJokanovic #UCIrvine #NCAAVolleyball #MensVolleyball #CollegeVolleyball #FrenchVolleyball #BumpSetChat #VolleyballPodcast #BigWestVolleyball

Team USA setter Saige Ka'aha'aina-Torres joins Bump Set Chat to share her incredible volleyball journey—from growing up in Hawaii to winning a national championship at Texas, playing professionally in Puerto Rico, France, LOVB and Major League Volleyball, and earning a spot on the 2026 USA Volleyball VNL roster. Saige opens up about:🏐 Growing up in Hawaii's unique volleyball community🏐 Her recruiting journey and why she chose Utah🏐 Entering the transfer portal and finding the perfect fit at Texas🏆 Winning the NCAA National Championship🎓 Playing for Jerritt Elliott and Erik Sullivan🌎 The transition to professional volleyball overseas🇵🇷 Playing in Puerto Rico🇫🇷 Life playing professionally in Paris🇺🇸 Returning home to play in LOVB and Major League Volleyball🇺🇸 The emotions of putting on the Team USA jersey for the first time🏐 What she's learned from veteran setters like Jordyn Poulter💡 Advice for young setters looking to reach the next level Whether you're a setter, player, parent, or volleyball fan, Saige shares incredible insight into leadership, communication, confidence, and what it takes to compete at the highest level. 👍 If you enjoy conversations like this, please Like, Subscribe, and leave a comment with your favorite part of Saige's journey! #Volleyball #TeamUSA #TexasVolleyball #Setter #BumpSetChat

What do empowering girls through storytelling and building the future of professional volleyball have in common? In this episode of Bump Set Chat, we sit down with Jes Wolfe, CEO of Rebel Girls and Chairwoman of LOVB San Francisco, to discuss her remarkable leadership journey and her vision for growing women's sports. Jes shares: Her path to becoming CEO of Rebel GirlsLeadership lessons from solo sports vs. team sportsWhy she joined LOVB and what inspired her to invest in professional volleyballWhy San Francisco was chosen for a LOVB franchiseHer vision for LOVB San Francisco and the future of the leagueHow storytelling can elevate women's sportsThe relationship between Rebel Girls and LOVBWhether we'll see collaborations between Rebel Girls and LOVB San FranciscoAdvice for young athletes and future leadersWhether you're a volleyball player, coach, parent, or simply passionate about women's sports, this conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, purpose, and the power of representation. 🏐 Subscribe for more conversations with professional players, coaches, and leaders shaping the future of volleyball. #Volleyball #LOVB #RebelGirls #WomenInSports #Leadership #BumpSetChat #ProVolleyball #GirlsSports #YouthSports #SportsLeadership

Two-time Olympian Erik Sullivan joins Bump Set Chat to discuss his incredible volleyball journey from UCLA Bruins men's volleyball to the international stage with Team USA and now as the head coach of United States men's national volleyball team while also leading LOVB Austin. We discuss:🏐 His playing days at UCLA🏅 Competing in two Olympic Games🌍 Playing professionally overseas🇺🇸 Coaching Team USA🔥 Balancing Team USA and LOVB Austin💪 Building championship culture🎯 Advice for young volleyball players and coaches If you love volleyball, coaching insights, and inspiring athlete stories, this episode is for you. 👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share for more conversations with the biggest names in volleyball! #volleyball #usavolleyball #lovb #teamusa #olympics #volleyballpodcast

What happens when you step away from volleyball at the start of your pro career to chase a completely different dream?In this episode, I sit down with Daenan Gyimah, better known as Kofi, to discuss his incredible journey from Canada to UCLA, professional volleyball overseas, and representing Team Canada on the international stage.We also dive into the unique decision to take three years away from volleyball to focus on music, how he balanced two passions, what brought him back to the sport, and what he learned from betting on himself. Kofi also shares stories about playing professionally alongside some of the biggest names in volleyball, including Wilfredo León, and reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his career.If you're a volleyball fan, an athlete pursuing multiple passions, or someone who enjoys inspiring stories of resilience and self-discovery, this conversation is for you.Topics Covered🏐 Growing up in Canada and discovering volleyball🎓 His journey to UCLA🌍 Playing professional volleyball overseas🍁 Representing Team Canada🎶 Why he left volleyball for three years to pursue music🎤 Balancing life as a recording artist and professional athlete🔥 Playing alongside Wilfredo León and other world-class players💡 Advice for young athletes chasing their dreamsDon't forget to Like 👍, Subscribe 🔔, and leave a comment with your favorite part of the interview!

Volleyball has taken Merrick McHenry around the world, but one of the biggest themes of his journey has been learning to embrace who he is. In this conversation, Merrick reflects on his path from youth volleyball to UCLA, Team USA, and professional volleyball in France, while also sharing the importance of confidence, authenticity, and not changing yourself to fit someone else's expectations. We also discuss: 🏐 His volleyball journey and rise to Team USA🏆 Winning at UCLA and developing as a player🇺🇸 Competing in the Volleyball Nations League🌍 Playing professionally overseas🤝 Sharing the experience with fellow American Mason Briggs👏 Learning from Karch Kiraly and the Team USA staff💙 Advice for young athletes about believing in themselves and embracing their individualityWhether you're a volleyball fan or simply looking for inspiration, Merrick's story is a reminder that success comes from being comfortable in your own skin while continuing to grow as an athlete and a person. #MerrickMcHenry #TeamUSA #Volleyball #Authenticity #Confidence #USAVolleyball #MensVolleyball #VNL #UCLA #VolleyballJourney

In this episode, we sit down with Parker Mikesch, assistant coach for the Louisville Cardinals women's volleyball, to talk about his volleyball journey, playing at Ohio State, and how he transitioned into coaching at one of the top programs in college volleyball. We also dive into: Recruiting philosophy Evaluating athletes beyond talent Match scouting and film breakdown Preparing game plans Working with Dan Meske and the Louisville staff The evolving world of college volleyball recruiting If you enjoy volleyball interviews, coaching insight, and behind-the-scenes college volleyball content, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe! #Volleyball #LouisvilleVolleyball #NCAAvolleyball #CollegeVolleyball #ParkerMikesch #Recruiting #VolleyballCoaching #WomensVolleyball #OhioStateVolleyball #VolleyballPodcast

Natalie Reagan joins the show to share her volleyball journey—from playing Division I volleyball at Oregon State Beavers women's volleyball to becoming the head coach of Long Beach State women's volleyball.We talk about her transition from assistant coach to head coach, the culture surrounding Long Beach State volleyball, coaching inside the iconic Walter Pyramid, recruiting, leadership, and advice for young middle blockers looking to play at the next level.🏐 Topics Include:Natalie Reagan’s volleyball journeyPlaying Division I volleyball at Oregon StateTransitioning into coachingBecoming head coach at Long Beach StateBuilding team cultureRecruiting advice for athletesTips for young middle blockersThe experience of coaching in The Pyramid

In this episode of Volleyball Journeys, Kristian Titriyski shares his remarkable path from growing up in Bulgaria to becoming a standout player for the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa men's volleyball program. Kristian discusses how he first discovered volleyball, his development through club volleyball in Bulgaria, and his experiences representing Bulgaria on the national team. He also explains why he chose Hawaiʻi instead of turning professional immediately and what it was like adjusting to college volleyball, life in Hawaii, and the unique culture surrounding UH men's volleyball. Throughout the conversation, Kristian offers valuable insights into the differences between European and NCAA volleyball, the importance of resetting mentally during matches, pregame rituals, scouting opponents, and the mentors who have helped shape his career. He also shares advice for younger hitters and international athletes considering playing college volleyball in the United States. Whether you're a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this interview provides an inside look at one of the sport's rising international talents. Discovering volleyball in BulgariaClub volleyball and national team experienceWhy Kristian chose HawaiiAdjusting to college and island lifeEuropean vs NCAA volleyballWinning the 2025 Big West Championship at homeMental reset strategiesPregame rituals and scoutingAdvice for young hittersMentors including Vlado NikolovKey Topics Covered:

Carolyn O'Dwyer shares her incredible volleyball journey from discovering the sport in Calgary to playing at Mount Royal University, becoming head coach of the University of Alberta Pandas, winning a championship, and joining Volleyball Canada's senior women's national team staff. In this in-depth conversation, Carolyn discusses her development as an athlete, the importance of club volleyball, the transition from player to coach, and the lessons she learned working under legendary Alberta coach Laurie Eisler. She also shares what it was like to receive the call to join Giovanni Guidetti’s coaching staff and what she has learned from one of the most respected coaches in international volleyball. We also dive into: Winning a championship with the Alberta PandasCoaching in Volleyball Canada’s Next Gen programThe experience of the FIVB Volleyball Nations LeagueHow Canada is progressing on the world stageDifferences between U SPORTS and NCAA volleyballRecruiting and retaining top Canadian athletesWhat Carolyn looks for in recruits beyond volleyball skillsMental toughness, resetting, and reading body languageWhich volleyball position is the toughest to playFun off-court topics, including pineapple pizza and who should be interviewed nextWhether you're a player, coach, recruiter, or volleyball fan, Carolyn offers tremendous insight into athlete development, leadership, and what it takes to build a championship culture.

Brie O’Reilly joins the show to share her incredible volleyball journey—from playing at Trinity Western University to becoming a setter for Canada Women's National Volleyball Team, competing professionally in Germany and Brazil, and now playing with LOVB Austin. We talk about: 🏐 Making Team Canada in 2019 🥇 Competing in the VNL's🌍 Playing professionally 🇨🇦 Olympic dreams and the road to 2028 Summer Olympics🧠 Being coached by Erik Sullivan and Giovanni Guidetti 🔥 Life now with LOVB Austin If you’re a volleyball player, coach, or fan, this conversation is packed with insight on elite setting, international volleyball, and chasing big goals. Subscribe for more volleyball journeys with players, coaches and leaders in the game. #Volleyball #TeamCanada #LOVB #Olympics #BrieOReilly