STORY COURTESY OF SOUTHERN VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
The AVCA revealed its Coaches of the Year in Division lll Men's Volleyball for the 2025 season. For the first time in his illustrious career, Head Coach Tom Peterson of Southern Virginia University is recognized as NCAA Division lll Coach of the Year. Brandin McDonough of Juniata was awarded Assistant Coach of the Year.
Coach Peterson has led the Knights on a memorable run this season, already capturing a program record breaking 33 wins, a CVC Regular Season Title, and CVC Tournament Championship. He also has Southern Virginia in the semifinal of the NCAA Tournament for the second time in history.
When asked about his recognition, Peterson was quick to credit his staff and the team for their performance this season. "Awards are nice, but what makes it special for me is that the team is being recognized for what they've done. We don't get this award if the team isn't having a special season. My staff has done so much more in getting us to this point so I really see it as an award to the entire staff."
Since the program's inception in 2017, Southern Virginia has become a men's volleyball juggernaut, and Peterson has been at the helm for all nine seasons. Since 2020, he's coached 12 AVCA All-Americans, including four this season, a program record. The Knights have recorded just two losses over the last two seasons and are in search of the first NCAA Championship in the university's history.
Athletics Director, Josh Monsen, also commented with his excitement for the award.
"I'm so proud of Coach Tom Peterson, his staff, and his team. This honor reflects years of dedication, unity, and Christ-centered leadership. It's a moment of great pride for all of us at Southern Virginia University Athletics, and we're excited to celebrate this milestone with him."
Coach Peterson and his staff of Sheryl Peterson, Gabe Wagner, Jeff Tomlinson, and Russell Tompkins have all played a big role in the teams' success this season, and in years past. They're back to work this week as the team gets set for the national semifinal on Friday, April 25th.