College Volleyball’s Grind Meets the Rise of LOVB

Alfee Reft’s move from UCLA to become the head coach of LOVB’s newest franchise in San Francisco is another clear signal of a shifting landscape in American volleyball. Reft, who spent three seasons leading the Bruins, is widely respected as a teacher, mentor, and elite relationship builder, making him a natural fit for the professional game. This transition represents an exciting opportunity not only for Reft, but for the growing USA pro volleyball scene as more high-profile college coaches begin to make the jump.

The college coaching profession has become an increasingly demanding grind, particularly in conferences like the Big Ten where expanded leagues now mean longer travel and heavier time commitments. Layered on top of that is the evolving recruiting environment, where NIL has effectively added a general manager role to a coach’s responsibilities. With compensation structures varying widely from one university to another, the playing field is far from level, creating additional strain and uncertainty.

Reft’s move raises a larger question: is this just the beginning of a broader shift toward professional leagues like LOVB and MLV? All signs point to yes. As pro teams continue to expand and stabilize, expect more college coaches to seek opportunities in the professional ranks, drawn by competitive balance, roster continuity, and a renewed focus on coaching the game itself.