The University of Hawai'i Men's Volleyball Team: Reigning Champions and Top-Ranked Contenders
The University of Hawai'i men's volleyball team is gearing up for another impressive season, as they were recently ranked No. 2 in the AVCA preseason poll. This marks an incredible eighth consecutive year that the team has earned a top 3 preseason ranking, solidifying their status as a powerhouse in the sport.
The Rainbow Warriors received seven first-place votes and a total of 473 points, just a few points behind the preseason favorite, UCLA, who secured 12 first-place votes. Long Beach State took the third spot with five first-place votes and 460 points.
This season, Hawai'i's schedule is packed with challenges, featuring seven teams ranked in the preseason Top 10 and 11 teams in the Top 20. The team's determination and resilience were on full display last season, as they finished with a No. 3 final AVCA ranking after reaching the NCAA Championship semifinal round. This marked their eighth consecutive year with a Top 5 national finish, showcasing their consistent excellence.
The Warriors' success is largely attributed to the leadership of Head Coach Charlie Wade, who became the program's all-time winningest coach last season. With a career record of 319-131, Coach Wade is entering his 17th season at the helm, ready to guide the team to new heights.
The 2026 season will kick off with a two-match series against NJIT, starting on Friday, January 2, and Sunday, January 4. The team's fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the season, as the Warriors look to defend their Big West Championship title and make a strong push for the national championship.
With their impressive rankings, challenging schedule, and a dedicated coaching staff, the University of Hawai'i men's volleyball team is poised to make waves in the world of college volleyball. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds!
