Whew!
We’re very happy to share the news that Coach Hugh McCutcheon has decided to remain as the head coach of Team USA!
We can now relax and sleep well. Trust us when we say that since he decided to become the new coach of University of Minnesota aka The Gophers, we were a little worried on who would take over his position with USA Volleyball knowing 2011 is a very crucial year not just for USA but for other teams because of the 2012 Olympic Qualification Tournaments.
Coach Hugh will start coaching The Gophers after the 2012 Olympics. For now, Laura Bush not related to former President Bush acts as the interim coach of The Lady Gophers.
The coach who led the men’s team to an Olympic Gold in 2008 before taking over the women’s program in 2009 has released this statement on USAV’s site:
“I am honored to continue serving as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team through the 2012 Olympic Games. I believe this is the right decision for my family, USA Volleyball and the University of Minnesota. Once the 2012 Olympics are completed, I will invest all of my energy into the University of Minnesota’s women’s volleyball program. Until then, my attention will be focused on training the U.S. Women’s National Team to be the best it can be at the 2012 Olympic Games. I am extremely grateful to both USA Volleyball and the University of Minnesota Athletic Department for their complete support and understanding of this decision.” says Coach Hugh.
We salute your words Coach HM! We think it’s a very smart decision to stay until 2012 before heading to Minnesota. You are one of the best coaches out there and you have what it takes to lead Logan Tom and Team USA to an Olympic Gold.
To READ the Full USAV Article, click THIS.
USAV President Doug Beal aka the other HAPPY man has also released these words:
“We are pleased that we have been able to work out a win-win solution to allow Hugh to finish his USA Volleyball contract through the 2012 Olympic Games in London. He has put together a terrific staff working with an extremely talented group of athletes who had remarkable success last season, including the gold medal at the FIVB World Grand Prix and a fourth-place finish at the FIVB World Championship. USA Volleyball appreciates the cooperation of University of Minnesota Athletic Director Joel Maturi and his athletics staff in making this a positive situation for Hugh, his family, USA Volleyball and the Gopher volleyball program.”
Oh yah! Thanks to University of Minnesota for cooperating with Coach Hugh’s schedule for the next 2 years and with USA Volleyball.
Trust us Gophers! Once Coach HM takes over. We’d hear more about your volleyball program as well as your talented players. Exciting!
Go USA!
(source & images: USA Volleyball)