Former volunteer assistant coach Matt Houlihan has been named interim assistant coach for the Stanford men’s volleyball team for the 2026 season. The announcement was made by John Kosty, The Birkhofer Family Head Men’s Volleyball Coach.
Houlihan will take over as The Al Roderigues Assistant Coach, a role previously held by Spencer Wickens. Wickens left the program to join the University of Minnesota as an assistant women’s volleyball coach.
Houlihan brings extensive experience with Stanford, having served eight seasons as a volunteer assistant from 2017 to 2024.
“Matt Houlihan is a tremendous addition to the Stanford Men’s Volleyball staff,” said Kosty. “He brings a deep wealth of knowledge, genuine passion for the game, and outstanding communication skills. His ability to connect with student-athletes and clearly convey high-level concepts will make an immediate and meaningful impact on our team, both on and off the court.”
Outside his work at Stanford, Houlihan is Club Director at Bay to Bay Volleyball in the Bay Area. He has led 17 teams to top-5 finishes or better at Junior Nationals, earning two gold medals, four silver medals, and six bronze medals.
Houlihan played collegiate volleyball at Pacific from 2010 to 2013. He graduated with a degree in sport management and business and was recognized three times as an MPSF All-Academic selection. He was also voted his team’s Most Inspirational Player all four years.
He lives in Morgan Hill with his wife Arielle and their daughters Rylie and Hallie.
