Inside The SEC: New Head Coaches

Ryan Theis | Florida  

Florida enters a new chapter this fall with Ryan Theis taking the helm, as just the third head coach in program history since 1984. A familiar face in Gainesville, Theis served as an assistant for the Gators in 2006-07, prior to building a reputation as one of the nation’s most consistent winners. Over 17 seasons as a head coach at Ohio and Marquette, he has compiled more than 400 victories and ranks among the top active coaches nationally in winning percentage.  

During his 11 years at Marquette, Theis guided the Golden Eagles to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, three Sweet 16 runs, and multiple Big East titles, all while developing numerous All-American and All- Conference players. His consistency is reflected in the fact that none of his teams have finished a full season with fewer than 21 wins. 

Now, back in Gainesville, Theis inherits a storied program with championship expectations. Known for his balanced, player- focused approach and strong recruiting ties, he aims to honor the legacy of Mary Wise while also putting his own imprint on the Gators. With his experience and proven results, Theis is poised to keep Florida at the forefront of SEC Volleyball in the coming years.  

Sarah Rumely Noble | South Carolina  

Sarah Rumely Noble takes over at South Carolina with a reputation as both a proven program builder and one of the most decorated setters in SEC history. A former Kentucky standout, Rumely Noble arrives in Columbia after 3 years as the head coach at Appalachian State, where she engineered an impressive turnaround. The Mountaineers, who had averaged just seven wins per year before her arrival, nearly tripled that output under her leadership, highlighted by back-to-back 18-win seasons.  

Rumely Noble’s foundation in the SEC runs deep. At Kentucky, she was a four-time All-SEC selection and two-time AVCA- All – American, still holding program records for career assists and service aces. Her honors include SEC Player of the Year (2008), Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame Induction (2017), and recognition as an SEC Women's Legend (2019). 

For the Gamecocks, her arrival signals both continuity and new energy. With her SEC pedigree and demonstrated ability to elevate programs, Rumely Noble steps into Columbia ready to shape South Carolina volleyball into a consistent contender within one of the nation’s most competitive conferences.  

Anders Nelson | Vanderbilt 

Anders Nelson will lead Vanderbilt’s reintroduced program as its first head coach, since the program’s one and only season in 1980. Nelson spent 11 seasons at Kentucky, first as an assistant coach and later as associate head coach. During his tenure as associate head coach, Kentucky compiled a 117-11 record in SEC matches, captured 6 consecutive conference titles, and made history by winning the SEC’s first volleyball national championship in 2021.  

Nelson’s recruiting expertise is equally impressive. He helped Kentucky sign four classes ranked in the top 10 nationally, including two in the top 5, and one top ranked class. Nelson also brings a strong personal background in volleyball, having played Division 1 men's volleyball at Ball State University, where he earned AVCA All America Second Team honors.  

Nelson steps into Vanderbilt at a pivotal moment, tasked with shaping the newly reintroduced program into a competitive force in the SEC. His extensive experience in player development, recruiting, and championship level environments will be key as he builds the foundation, establishes team culture, and guides the program through its formative seasons.