Hugh McCutcheon to be joining the "Land of 10,000 Lakes"

by David Portney

As I’m sure a lot of you have heard by now, Hugh McCutcheon has accepted the University of Minnesota women’s head coach position. McCutcheon, who has served as either the U.S. Women’s or U.S. Men’s National Volleyball Team Head Coach since 2005, will stay on as USA’s head coach until a mutually agreed upon time before joining Gopher nation on a full-time basis.

This is obviously big news in the world of USA volleyball, and the country’s loss will certainly be Minnesota’s gain.

“I am honored and excited to coach the women’s volleyball program at the University of Minnesota,” McCutcheon said. “This is a wonderful opportunity, both personally and professionally, and I hope we can continue the (Minnesota) team’s strong history of success. It is and continues to be an honor and privilege to coach the U.S. Women’s National Team.”

I had the privilege of meeting Hugh at the AVCA Convention in Kansas City, and there was no questioning his passion for the game. I was in the room when he was addressing the NCAA Division 1 All-Americans, and by looking at the faces of the All-Americans I could tell there was a great deal of respect for him. It is that passion coupled with the respect that potential recruits and current Gophers will have that makes this hire a great one.

Congratulations Hugh, and good luck as you move on to the collegiate ranks…Team USA will certainly miss you.