Lynchburg, Va. -- University of Lynchburg Director of Athletics Jon Waters is excited to introduce Ryan Turner as the head coach of Lynchburg's new men's volleyball program.
"Ryan demonstrated a passion for Lynchburg during his time here with us as an assistant coach," Waters said. "His vision for the type of program that he will build over the coming years aligns perfectly with our institutional commitment to high-impact co-curricular experiences."
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"I'd like to thank President Alison and Jon Waters for the opportunity to come start a men's program at Lynchburg," Turner said. "As a former player, it means a lot to be able to provide more young men a place to play volleyball in college. Giving them the opportunity to play the sport they love at a high-caliber institution means the world."
Turner returns to Lynchburg after previously serving as an assistant coach for the Lynchburg women's volleyball program for three seasons. He earned his Master's of Business Administration from Lynchburg while coaching the Hornets from 2020-2022. During his first stint in the Hill City, the women's volleyball team posted a .530 winning percentage, made three trips to the Old Dominion Athletic Conference tournament, and produced seven All-ODAC performers.
Turner also helped Lynchburg's Director of Volleyball Hannah Givens start and recruit the beach volleyball program on campus which played its first season in 2022-23.
In December of 2022, Turner was hired to start the men's volleyball program at Cabrini University. However, Cabrini will close after the 2023-24 school year. Turner begins his coaching responsibilities at Lynchburg on Sept. 1 and begins recruiting for Lynchburg's 2024-25 men's volleyball season immediately.
Turner has experience as a head coach for several club teams. He coached the U17 Timberlake Volleyball Club in the winter of 2022-23 winning three tournaments. He also served as the EC Power Summer Beach head coach earlier in 2023.
Turner played volleyball at the Division-III level with Wells College in Aurora, N.Y. He graduated with a business degree in 2019 and as the Express' program leader in matches started, wins, and winning percentage. Turner and the Express played in three conference championships, won the league title in 2019, and won the program's first NCAA tournament game the same season.
"This is one of the best athletic departments in the country," Turner said. "Being able to work alongside and learn from the amazing coaches at Lynchburg again is a privilege."
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