Jeff Nelson assumed leadership of the volleyball program during the COVID pandemic in 2020. Over his five-year tenure with the Coyotes, he achieved a record of 55-30 and led the team to the NJCAA Region Tournament three times in four seasons. In 2021, the Coyotes clinched the overall ACCAC conference title. Jeff revitalized the program, securing more victories in his four years than the previous eight years combined. During his time, the team also enjoyed a series of individual accolades, producing four All-Americans in the last four seasons: Jazymyn Tate (21), Jada Blake (22), Kennedy Dastrup (23), and Talli Copple (24). Both Kennedy Dastrup and Jazymyn Tate were recognized as ACCAC Players of the Year. After over 20 years in college coaching, Jeff is retiring. His coaching career includes roles as Head Coach at the University of New Mexico from 2007 to 2015, the University of San Francisco from 2003 to 2006, and Texas Tech University from 1995 to 2002. Jeff celebrated his 500th win as a college coach on September 25, 2023, while serving as our Head Coach.
"Jeff brought Coyote Volleyball back to national prominence. Our teams competed for titles, which is an incredible achievement accomplished in a short time. Thank you, Jeff," says Athletic Director Russell Luce.
We are grateful for Jeff's leadership, which restored our program's regional and national success. We wish him all the best in his retirement; he will always be a Yote for life!