Florida State University Athletics
Chris Poole Stepping Down as Head Volleyball Coach
1/7/2026 1:51:00 PM | Women's Volleyball
TALLAHASSEE – Florida State volleyball head coach Chris Poole is stepping down from his position, he announced Wednesday. Poole, who led FSU to 15 NCAA Tournament appearances in his 18 seasons, chose not to seek an extension of his contract following the 2025 season.
Poole leaves the sideline following a distinguished career marked by competitive success, program growth, and a lasting impact on student-athletes both on and off the court. In 18 seasons with the Seminoles, Poole tallied 405 wins and led the Garnet and Gold to four ACC championships. Poole led FSU to the Round of 16 in the NCAA Tournament five times and became the first ACC team to reach the National Semifinal in 2011. The four-time ACC Coach of the Year led the Seminoles to 12 20-win seasons and 36 victories over ranked opponents. Poole is the seventh-winningest coach in Division I history with his 955 career wins in 39 seasons as a head coach.
"This university, this department, and this program have meant everything to me," Poole said. "After thoughtful consideration, I believe this is the right time for me to step aside. I am excited to pursue my next goal in life of working in athletics administration. I am incredibly proud of what we've built in Tallahassee and am fully confident in the future of Florida State volleyball.
Florida State Vice President and Director of Athletics Michael Alford praised Poole's legacy and accomplishments.
"Chris Poole is one of the most respected coaches in Florida State's entire athletics history," Alford said. "His decision to step down allows the volleyball program to take its next step forward, but his legacy of consistent competitiveness will always be remembered. We are grateful for his leadership, his integrity, and the foundation he has built."
Florida State will conduct a national search for its next head coach.
Poole leaves the sideline following a distinguished career marked by competitive success, program growth, and a lasting impact on student-athletes both on and off the court. In 18 seasons with the Seminoles, Poole tallied 405 wins and led the Garnet and Gold to four ACC championships. Poole led FSU to the Round of 16 in the NCAA Tournament five times and became the first ACC team to reach the National Semifinal in 2011. The four-time ACC Coach of the Year led the Seminoles to 12 20-win seasons and 36 victories over ranked opponents. Poole is the seventh-winningest coach in Division I history with his 955 career wins in 39 seasons as a head coach.
"This university, this department, and this program have meant everything to me," Poole said. "After thoughtful consideration, I believe this is the right time for me to step aside. I am excited to pursue my next goal in life of working in athletics administration. I am incredibly proud of what we've built in Tallahassee and am fully confident in the future of Florida State volleyball.
Florida State Vice President and Director of Athletics Michael Alford praised Poole's legacy and accomplishments.
"Chris Poole is one of the most respected coaches in Florida State's entire athletics history," Alford said. "His decision to step down allows the volleyball program to take its next step forward, but his legacy of consistent competitiveness will always be remembered. We are grateful for his leadership, his integrity, and the foundation he has built."
Florida State will conduct a national search for its next head coach.
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