Harrogate, TN -- Lincoln Memorial University has officially named Connor Crawford as the new head coach of the men's volleyball program, becoming the fifth head coach in Lincoln Memorial men's volleyball's history. Crawford brings a well-rounded background in player development, strategic scouting, and collegiate recruiting to the Railsplitter program, alongside a strong foundation as a former collegiate player and team captain.
Crawford most recently served as the boys program manager and beach manager at Sky High Volleyball Club in Libertyville, Illinois. In that role, he developed and implemented comprehensive training plans for over 250 indoor and beach athletes while designing volleyball-specific strength and conditioning regimens focused on mobility and injury prevention. His extensive club coaching experience also includes serving as a head coach for Horizon Volleyball Club in London, Kentucky, where he spent multiple seasons directing practice plans and skill-specific training for both boys and girls teams.
His collegiate coaching experience includes a significant tenure at Austin Peay State University, where he served as the first assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the women's volleyball program, even taking over as interim head coach for the final six matches of the 2024 season. During his time in Clarksville, Crawford oversaw scouting reports using Volleymetrics, served as the primary blocking and middle blocker/setter connection coach, and was the main recruiter during the Fall/Spring and set up all visit coordination.
This appointment marks a return to Harrogate for Crawford, who previously served as the first assistant coach for the Lincoln Memorial University women's volleyball program. His collegiate coaching career also includes time as a graduate assistant coach for the women's volleyball team at the University of the Cumberlands, where he assisted with player development, workout design, and extensive talent evaluation.
Crawford earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a focus on Secondary Education from Bryan College, where he was a men's volleyball student-athlete, team captain, and volunteer assistant coach. He later completed his Master's in Health and Human Performance at the University of the Cumberlands. His combined background in education, collegiate recruiting, and high-level training positions him well to lead the Lincoln Memorial University men's volleyball program forward.
"I couldn't be more excited for this opportunity at LMU taking over the men's volleyball program," said Crawford. "I'm looking to continue and grow the success on the court that has been built up by those before me, while developing a culture that will shape young men to be successful in life. Volleyball was not as popular in this area when I was growing up, so I'm even more excited to show young men in the area this sport can take them places. I want to thank Mr. Muncy, Dr. McNeal, and the others involved for this chance. As always, Go Splitters!"
Athletic Director Travis Muncy expressed his confidence in Crawford, drawing attention to his energy and extensive background. "Appointing the right leader for our Men's Volleyball team was crucial, and Coach Crawford embodies everything we value in our athletic department," he said. "Coach Crawford brings exceptional energy, a strong tactical background, and a genuine passion for cultivating a winning culture. We are excited about the future of the program under Coach Crawford's guidance and are thrilled to welcome Coach Crawford into the Railsplitter family."
