Lynchburg, Va. -- The University of Lynchburg and Director of Athletics Jon Waters are excited to announce the promotion of Thomas Chandler as the new head beach volleyball coach.

"Thomas has made a positive impact on our student athletes and programs since his arrival here on Lakeside Drive," said Director of Athletics Jon Waters. "We are excited to have him step forward to provide leadership for our beach program while continuing to help the indoor group build momentum in such a positive direction."

Chandler joined the Hornets' in the fall of 2024 as an assistant coach for women's indoor volleyball and beach volleyball. He quickly established himself as a dedicated coach and mentor committed to the development of student-athletes both on and off the court. He will continue his duties as assistant coach of the women's indoor volleyball team along with his promotion to head coach of the beach volleyball team.

Since his arrival in 2024, the women's indoor volleyball program has seen immense success. The indoor squad has totaled an impressive 45 wins across two seasons and achieved the first NCAA tournament appearance in program history. In 2025, the women's indoor volleyball team tied the program record for the most victories in a season with 26 triumphs. 

Additionally, the beach program, entering their 5th season in 2026 has continued to develop with Chandler as an assistant, claiming double-digit victories in each of the last two seasons and earning wins in both years of the AVCA Small College Beach Volleyball Championships. The program is set up to further excel in the future with coach Chandler now taking the helm.

"I want to thank everyone that's helped me along the way," said coach Chandler. "My family, the South Alabama staff, coach Cardoza, coach Jensen, Jon Waters, and our entire athletics department. I'm thrilled for the opportunity to take on a lead role for this program, and very excited to continue to work alongside coach Jensen and grow the program."

A native of Mobile, Alabama, Chandler attended the University of South Alabama, where he spent three years as a student manager for the Jaguars' volleyball program. In addition to his collegiate experience, Chandler served as head coach for the Southern Alabama Volleyball Academy (SAVA) in 2024, where he worked with athletes at the club level to develop technical skills and competitive success. He has continued to work at the club level in Virginia as well.

Volleyball has long been a part of Chandler's life. He comes from a family deeply rooted in the sport. His mother, Lydia, served as a longtime volleyball coach, and his sisters, Elizabeth and Mary Lillian, both competed at the high school level.

Beyond the sidelines, Chandler is an accomplished beach volleyball player. He has competed in beach volleyball tournaments across the country for more than five years and remains an active competitor. His passion for the beach game and firsthand playing experience bring valuable insight and enthusiasm to Lynchburg's growing beach volleyball program.

As head coach, Chandler will lead the continued growth and development of the Hornets' women's beach volleyball program while fostering a culture of excellence, teamwork, and competitive success.

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