UNCW volleyball prepares for first season with Lo Hoyer as head coach
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — After years of not being in the discussion for the CAA, UNCW volleyball is committed to turning the program around.
The biggest change for the 2025 season is the introduction of Lo Hoyer as head coach.
Hoyer previously spent three seasons leading the program at Division II Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where her teams won 20 or more games each season. The Seahawks have not accomplished that feat in a decade.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
Hoyer says turning around the program will involve two key factors.
“It’s culture and it’s talent,” Hoyer said. “So bringing in kids that have played at a high level, that know how to compete at a high level. That want to win, are willing to do the work that’s required to win. Obviously, our location is great. Our school is great. But we want people that are super excited to be part of Seahawk volleyball and understand the importance of being part of the program and making it a place that people can be excited about.”
As it often does, a new coach means many new players. Ten of the 18 ladies on the roster were not on the team a year ago, but Hoyer has left a good first impression on those who stayed.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
“Lo is such an awesome personable coach,” senior Hannah Forbes said. “She really cares about us as individuals. She cares about on the court. She cares about us off the court. That’s what really stuck out to me about her.”
Those new to the program feel spirit will carry them towards a newfound winning culture.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
“Just honestly grit and how much we love volleyball,” senior Olivia Heidel said. “Everybody wants to be in the gym. Everybody wants to be better. It’s ultimately a super competitive environment.”
UNCW’s last winning season was 2018 with their last conference title and NCAA tournament appearance coming in 2015.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
Hoyer is committed to ending those droughts.
“Our goal is always going to be to win a conference championship,” Hoyer said. “We might fall short of that, but that’s full success. Everything leads to reaching that goal and that will always be out goal. We’re going to be bold, we’re going to be audacious and we’re going to believe in doing really big things.”
UNCW opens their season at home on Friday during the Seahawk Classic. They will face Lindenwood, Virginia Tech and NC Central during the two day event.
