CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Joe Sagula, who led the University of North Carolina volleyball program to seven regular-season Atlantic Coast Conference championships and is the winningest volleyball coach in ACC history, is retiring after 33 seasons at Carolina and 42 years as a collegiate head coach. He met with his team Monday to share the news.
“As I made this decision to retire, my main focus was to ensure that I leave this program in a strong position to continue to compete for championships, and I feel that timing is right. It has been an honor to coach at Carolina and I’m very proud of the strong foundation we have built over many years to become a nationally competitive program, and with a terrific squad of players returning and talented recruits coming in, this program is primed to continue to do great things,” Sagula said.
“I’m grateful to the Carolina Athletics administration — from John Swofford to Dick Baddour to Bubba Cunningham – who have contributed to this wonderful period of my life. I also want to thank Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and all the exceptional people I have had the honor of working alongside in our athletic department.
“I have had an amazing career filled with so many emotions and the unique joy that coaching in college athletics provides. There are so many players and coaches who have contributed to this program over the years and established great traditions. I appreciate their contributions and impact at Carolina and for trusting me as their coach. I feel fortunate to have the support of so many in our community, including our loyal fans, students and donors. The legacy we have created has helped build something special and lasting in Chapel Hill.”
A national search for the program’s next coach will begin immediately. Sagula will remain the program’s head coach until a successor is named.
Sagula has led the Carolina’s volleyball program since 1990, coaching the Tar Heels to 10 Atlantic Coast Conference championships (seven regular-season, three tournament) and 15 NCAA Tournament appearances. He led UNC to a 662-384 record (.633), ranks third nationally among active coaches with 865 career wins and is among the top 20 for all-time wins by a Division I volleyball coach. His seven ACC championships are tied for the most in conference history, and he has the most ACC…
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