Charleston, W.Va. – Director of Athletics Dr. Bren Stevens announces Robert Poole as the next Men's Volleyball Head Coach at the University of Charleston.
"We are proud to have Coach Robert Poole join us as the leader of our men's volleyball program," said Dr. Stevens. "Rob's extensive playing experience and expertise as a coach will undoubtedly elevate our program. Equally important, Rob's commitment to mentorship, community service, and academic excellence perfectly matches our university's values."
Poole has been the Assistant Coach for Charleston for the past two seasons and in his inaugural season the program shattered numerous school records, boasting a remarkable record of 22 wins and 7 losses. Notably in 2023, Charleston Men's Volleyball embarked on a formidable 14-game winning streak at the season's outset, not dropping a single set. This impressive performance included historic victories against George Mason, NJIT, Lincoln Memorial, and The Ohio State University, marking the program's first-ever triumphs against these opponents. In a groundbreaking achievement, the program soared to national recognition in 2023, ascending as high as 13th in the AVCA DI/DII Coaches poll and securing the top spot in the DII polls for much of the season. In 2024 the Golden Eagles reached another program first with an EIVA Conference Tournament victory over the Princeton Tigers to advance to the semifinal round.
Over the past two seasons, Charleston showcased formidable statistics, ranking among the NCAA's top three for Blocks per Set, Opposition Attack Efficiency, and Attack Efficiency. Beyond the team's collective success, individual excellence abounded, with several earning All-EIVA Honors over the past two seasons. Additionally, four Charleston players clinched professional contracts abroad following the stellar 2023 season.
Before joining the University of Charleston, Coach Poole served as an Assistant Coach for Wolfdogs Nagoya in the V-League in Japan, working alongside US coach Chris McGown, Poole undertook various responsibilities including scouting, video analysis, and on-court coaching. He played a pivotal role in guiding the professional team to a second-place finish in the League and clinching victory in the Emperors cup.
With three years of professional playing experience spanning across Germany, Holland, and Estonia, Poole brings a wealth of firsthand knowledge to his coaching resume. Prior to his professional career, Poole represented his home country as a member of the English Junior and Senior national teams, competing in both beach and indoor volleyball.
Before his venture into the professional realm, Poole honed his skills at the University of Mount Olive (2014-2018), where he excelled as an opposite and outside hitter. During his collegiate tenure, Poole led the nation in aces per set in 2018, amassed over 1000 kills, and earned a spot on the CoSIDA Academic All-American team in both his junior and senior years. Poole graduated from the University of Mount Olive with a major in Chemistry, complemented by minors in physics and biology.
"I am excited to take on a new role within the program and continue the progress that the current group of student athletes have made over the past few years," said Poole. "Having already worked with our athlete for two years, they were a big part in my decision to step into the new role, and I hope to build on the brand of volleyball Luke has developed. I am thankful to all those involved for the opportunity, and the ability to continue to represent UC in my new role."
