March 3, 2014
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Head volleyball coach Dave Shondell will continue to guide the Boilermakers to Big Ten and postseason success at least through the 2019 as his contract was extended through the next six seasons.
"After another successful season, there is no doubt that the Purdue volleyball program is among the elite in the country," Calvin Williams, associate athletics director and volleyball sport administrator, said. "We believe that with Dave Shondell at the helm, our program is poised to continue its' success. With this commitment, we look forward to the continued success and bright future of our program."
Shondell has led the Boilermakers to nine NCAA Tournament berths in the last 10 seasons, including seven Sweet 16 appearances and two Elite Eight berths. Purdue is one of just five teams to advance to the Sweet 16 each of the last four years, and one of just four teams nationally with two Elite Eight berths in the same span.
With its seven Sweet 16 appearances in the last nine seasons, the Purdue program is one of just six in the nation that can boast the accomplishment, alongside Florida, Nebraska, Penn State, Stanford and Texas.
The Boilermakers, which ranked eighth in the final AVCA Coaches Poll of 2013, has ranked among the nation's Top 20 in the final poll in seven of Shondell's 11 seasons. Purdue also has been ranked among the nation's top 25 in 47 straight polls (dating to Nov. 29, 2010).
"I appreciate the confidence the administration, specifically Calvin Williams and Morgan Burke, has demonstrated in our coaching staff," Shondell said. "Our success is a result of great support, from the athletics department and the fans, a terrific culture and dedicated student-athletes.
"A six-year agreement sends a significant message to the current Purdue players, our recruits and all of Boiler Nation that Purdue University is committed to seeing our program continue to climb the Big Ten and national ranks. I look forward to many more seasons that will make Boilermakers everywhere proud of our program."
In his tenure, Shondell has coached Purdue to 43 wins over ranked opponents. The Boilermakers have posted seven 20-win seasons, including 29 victories in 2011, the program's highest total since 1985. Shondell has coached the Boilermakers to nine All-America and three Academic All-America honors. His charged also have earned 18 All-Big Ten and 71 Academic All-Big Ten accolades.
The Boilermakers, which posted a 23-12 record and advanced to the Elite Eight in 2013, return to the gym this week to begin preparations for their spring campaign. The slate includes four competition dates. Purdue will play at home on Belin Court on April 16.