Alan Knipe Earns Induction into AVCA Hall of Fame
LONG BEACH, Calif. – long Beach State Men’s Volleyball Head Coach Alan Knipe has been selected for induction into the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Hall of Fame as part of the 2025 class. Knipe will be recognized in the Coach/Educator category, honoring his distinguished career and contributions to the sport.
Knipe’s induction acknowledges a career deeply intertwined with success at Long Beach State. He was a player on the Beach’s 1991 NCAA championship team and has since lead the program to three additional national titles as head coach in 2018, 2019, and 2024.
During his 22 seasons leading the Long Beach State program (with a period from 2010-2012 dedicated to coaching the U.S. Men’s National Team), Knipe has compiled a 450-172 record - a winning percentage exceeding 70%.Under his guidance,the team has secured eight Big West Conference championships and made ten NCAA tournament appearances,including eight in the last nine seasons.
Knipe’s commitment to player growth has also been recognized with seven different Long Beach State athletes earning AVCA National Player of the Year honors during his tenure.
Prior to returning to Long Beach State full-time, Knipe served as the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team, leading them to a silver medal at the 2012 FIVB World League and qualification for the 2012 Olympic Games, securing the team’s eighth consecutive Olympic berth.He also guided the U.S.to three World League Finals appearances (2009, 2011, and 2012).
Knipe joins Long Beach State Women’s Volleyball pioneers dixie Grimmett (inducted 2003), Brian Gimmillaro (inducted 2008), and Debbie Green (inducted 2004) as AVCA Hall of Fame inductees connected to the university.
The AVCA Hall of Fame, established in 2003, recognizes individuals who have made important contributions to all levels of volleyball – including indoor, beach, NCAA, NAIA, two-year colleges, and youth programs for both men and women.Nominees are considered in the categories of coach/educator, administrator, and organization. As of 2024, the Hall of Fame includes 101 members, with new inductees honored annually at a luncheon ceremony during the AVCA Convention.
