Texas Volleyball Coach Elliott Adjusts Sideline Strategy

Head coach Jerritt Elliott is increasing his active sideline presence to boost energy for the Texas volleyball squad.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Volleyball

Texas Volleyball Coach Elliott Adjusts Sideline Strategy

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Does a coach showing more sideline emotion actually improve a team's performance?

Texas head coach Jerritt Elliott has transitioned from sitting on the bench to standing on the sideline during matches to provide more engagement. The 58-year-old coach aims to inject additional emotional energy into a team that currently maintains an even-keel temperament.

Why it matters

Elliott intends to support his players by providing more verbal and physical encouragement during live play. This shift in coaching style comes as the team works to navigate the remainder of the season with a 9-7 overall record.

Coach Jerritt Elliott has led the program for 26 years, securing 3 national titles, 11 Final Four appearances, and 15 conference championships. The team currently holds a No. 14 national ranking.

The players

Jerritt Elliott

He is the 58-year-old head coach of the Texas volleyball program who has led the team for 26 years.

Texas Volleyball

This collegiate athletic program based in Austin has won three national titles and 15 conference championships.

The details

During matches against Auburn and Florida last weekend, Elliott opted to stand on the sidelines rather than remain seated. He is now emphasizing active, high-energy support to complement the team's existing emotional approach on the court.

Last weekend, Texas played matches against Auburn and Florida.
Texas visits South Carolina this Sunday.

Season Trajectory

The team's current 9-7 record places them in a precarious position regarding their potential standing for the upcoming 2024 NCAA Volleyball Tournament selection process. This mid-season adjustment reflects a strategic push to improve competitive positioning before the postseason bracket is finalized.

The shift in coaching behavior aims to stabilize performance for the remainder of the SEC conference schedule. With a 5-3 conference record, the intensity Elliott brings to the sideline could influence match outcomes in tight sets similar to the recent five-set loss against Florida.

The takeaway

Maintaining consistent energy on the court can often be the difference in high-stakes collegiate sports. Coaches frequently adjust their sideline presence to better align with the emotional needs of their current roster during challenging stretches.