Sullivan Named Asst. Coach At NU

BOULDER? University of Colorado assistant volleyball coach Erik Sullivan was named an assistant coach at the University of Nebraska on Thursday.

“First of all I would like to thank (head coach) Pi’i (Aiu) for the opportunity that he gave me here,” Sullivan said. “It’s been a great experience; I have nothing but great things to say about the way he runs his program. It’s been a learning experience as well as a great experience for me. It will be something that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

Sullivan joined the CU coaching staff on July 1, 2004. During his tenure, he helped the Buffs to 52 wins in the last four seasons. The Buffs made the NCAA Tournament three of those years, advancing to the second round in 2006. Sullivan also helped CU defeat the top-ranked undefeated Huskers on Nov. 11, 2006, to snap a 17-match losing streak to NU.

Prior to coaching at Colorado, Sullivan was a member of the 2004 and 2000 USA Men’s Olympic teams. He was a member of the national team for eight years. Sullivan earned Best Defensive Player in the World at the 1998 World Championships and that same year he earned the USA National Team’s Tom Haine Players’ Award. Sullivan was touted as the America’s Cup Best Reception Player in 2000 and the Best Libero at the 2001 World Championship Qualifier. He was the Best Defensive Player at the 1997 NORCECA Zone Championships and the Best Reception Player at the 1999 NORCECA.

“We will miss his contribution to the program,” Aiu said. “He has done a great job for us in terms of being a good ambassador for our program as well as doing a great job coaching our liberos and working on ball control. I wish him the best in this opportunity to advance his career.”

A national search for Sullivan’s replacement will commence immediately. Interested parties should contact the volleyball office.

-COLORADO-

Colorado University Athletics