Charlie Wade: A Triple Triumph in Coaching Excellence
IRVINE, Calif. – The spotlight shines brightly on Charlie Wade, as he has been named the Big West Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year for the third time in just four seasons! Leading the University of Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors to another Big West Championship title this past weekend showcases his remarkable talent as a coach.
A Legacy of Success
Wade’s accomplishments are as impressive as they are numerous. Having previously garnered this honor in 2022 (co-COY) and 2023, he continues to elevate the standards of collegiate volleyball. In his 16th season at UH, Wade has spearheaded the Rainbow Warriors to significant victories, boasting:
- Two national titles (2023, 2022)
- Four Big West Championship titles (2019, 2022, 2023, 2025)
- Two Big West regular season titles (2023, 2023)
- Seven NCAA Tournament appearances (2015, 2017, 2019, 2023, 2022, 2023, 2025)
A Championship Performance
This season, the Warriors wrapped up their regular season with a commendable record of 26-5, finishing as the runner-up. However, Wade’s squad found their rhythm in the tournament, triumphantly defeating UC Irvine in the semifinals and overcoming Long Beach State—the regular season champions—in the finals.
As a result, the Warriors have secured the No. 2 overall seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament, slated to take place in Columbus, Ohio. They are set to face either Daemen or Penn State in the quarterfinals, furthering their quest for glory.
Historic Milestone Reached
Wade’s journey took a historic turn last Friday with a victory over UC Irvine. That win marked his 317th career victory, officially making him the all-time winningest coach in the program’s history. In the broader landscape of NCAA Division I-II, he ranks as the fifth winningest active coach and stands among the elite group of just 22 coaches who have surpassed 300 career victories.
Spotlight on Player Achievements
While Wade shines in the coach’s seat, Long Beach State freshman setter Moni Nikolov is making headlines of his own, having secured both the Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year awards. His stellar performance has captivated both fans and analysts alike.
Big West Award Winners
- Player of the Year: Moni Nikolov, Long Beach State
- Freshman of the Year: Moni Nikolov, Long Beach State
- Coach of the Year: Charlie Wade, Hawai’i
As the NCAA Tournament approaches, one thing is clear: the journey for Wade and the Rainbow Warriors is far from over. With their eyes set firmly on the prize, expect to see more thrilling moments and inspiring strategies from this exceptional team. Stay tuned for updates and witness history in the making!
#HawaiiMVB
