UC San Diego women's volleyball coach Spencer McLachlin has finalized his coaching staff for the 2026 season, bringing in Jimmy Lundgren as associate head coach, along with assistants Casey Schoenlein and Kat Chen. McLachlin, who is starting his tenure as the program's eighth head coach, is looking to leverage the extensive experience of his new team members to develop a competitive squad. Each coach brings a wealth of achievements and backgrounds, contributing to a robust support system for the Triton athletes as they prepare for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • Jimmy Lundgren has helped secure five NCAA Tournament appearances and a Final Four in six seasons at USD.
  • Casey Schoenlein contributed to a 60-24 record and a WCC Championship during her tenure at San Diego.
Yes, But

While the new coaching staff boasts impressive credentials, the challenge remains to cohesively integrate their diverse styles and philosophies to enhance the Triton program's performance in a competitive environment.

State of Play
  • McLachlin is entering his first season with the Tritons amid high expectations and significant program transitions.
  • The Tritons will be adapting to new conference dynamics as they strengthen their Division I standings in the Big West Conference.
What's Next

The coaching staff will focus on fostering team cohesion and preparing for the transition into a higher level of competition, particularly with the Tritons looking to make strides in the Big West Conference during the 2026 season.

Bottom Line

UC San Diego's hiring of experienced coaches signifies a commitment to elevating the women's volleyball program. The success of the 2026 season will hinge on their ability to leverage individual strengths while creating a unified team identity.