WAYNE, N.J. – William Paterson University has selected Kevin Rodgers, who possesses 12 years of collegiate coaching experience, to lead its women's volleyball program as its head coach.

Rodgers arrives in Wayne by way of Fairleigh Dickinson University's Division I Metropolitan Campus, where last season, the Knights finished with the same number of wins as the previous year despite playing only a third of the matches. Under his watch, FDU improved in every statistical category from the previous season and registered a 3-0 victory over eventual NCAA Tournament participant Long Island University, marking the Knights' first triumph over the Sharks in 21 seasons.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kevin to William Paterson as our next head volleyball coach," said Kristen Foley, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation. "He brings a competitive spirit along with a wealth of experience, and has developed an impressive reputation for building successful programs. We cannot wait for this new chapter of WP volleyball."

Before his stint at FDU, Rodgers was at the helm of the women's volleyball program at East Stroudsburg University for three years (2017-20). During his first season leading the Warriors, Rodgers compiled 17 victories, which was ESU's first winning campaign since 2006. Rodgers closed out his tenure at ESU by posting a 29-7 mark in 2019 and guiding the team to its first PSAC Championship and the automatic-qualifying spot in the NCAA Division II Tournament. For his efforts, Rodgers garnered PSAC Coach of the Year honors.

"I would like to thank Kristen Foley, Heather Brocious and the rest of the search committee for having faith in my ability to bring this program back to prominence and for giving me the opportunity to be a Pioneer," said Rodgers. "I see a ton of potential for the volleyball team an am looking forward to working with our current roster to see how we can improve as the season progresses." 

Prior to joining ESU, Rodgers served as the top assistant for Bucknell's women's program in 2016 where he was charged with developing the blockers and outside hitters while leading the Bisons' recruiting efforts. He spent four seasons (2012-15) leading the men's squad at Ramapo College, compiling an overall record of 83-57 and a 49-9 mark in conference play.
Rodgers also worked as the head girls' volleyball coach at Central Volleyball Academy from 2012-14, coaching eight future Division I players. The team was ranked fourth of 70 squads in the Garden Empire Volleyball Association in the 17s division in 2013, and second out of 49 teams in the 18s division the following year.

The Clifton, N.J. native began his coaching career at his alma mater, New Jersey City University, as an assistant with the men's program before being elevated to head coach in January of 2012. With the Gothic Knights, Rodgers registered a 14-15 record and a secured spot in the Skyline Conference Tournament.

A 2010 graduate of NJCU with a bachelor's degree in business administration, Rodgers was a four-year volleyball standout, racking up more than 1,250 kills and 1,000 digs. He currently ranks second all time in kills (1,297) and fourth in digs (1,014). The Gothic Knights were 71-55 during his four years while making three postseason appearances, and Rodgers was a two-time All-NECVA Metro Division performer. Rodgers continued his education by obtaining a master's in sports administration from FDU-Metro in 2015.

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