CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Queens University of Charlotte Director of Athletics Cherie Swarthout has announced the hiring of Matt Stolz as the fifth head coach to lead the Royals women's volleyball program. Stolz brings a championship pedigree and over eight years of collegiate coaching experience, including the last five seasons as an assistant at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), where he helped guide the Redhawks to an Ohio Valley Conference Championship and multiple postseason appearances.
 
"Coach Stolz brings a contagious energy alongside a strong resume that will help continue to elevate Queens right away," Swarthout stated. "We look forward to seeing the women's volleyball program continue its upward trajectory as we approach the final stages of the NCAA Division I transition process."
 
Stolz played a vital role in SEMO's rise to conference prominence, contributing to a 96-51 overall record during his tenure. His time there included a 2021 OVC Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance, a 2024 OVC Championship, and consistent top finishes in the league. He also coached several players who earned all-conference and all-region honors while helping elevate the overall performance of the program.
 
"I am honored, humbled, and excited to be named the next head women's volleyball coach at Queens University of Charlotte," Stolz said. "I'd like to thank Director of Athletics Cherie Swarthout for this opportunity. From the moment I arrived on campus, I could see how incredible not only the university was, but also how the people are truly what make this university special. I am excited to get to know the student-athletes further as I aim to aid them in reaching their academic and athletic goals while providing the best experience that I can."
 
Before joining SEMO, Stolz, a Wauwatosa, Wisconsin native, served as a volunteer assistant coach at Marquette University during a season in which the Golden Eagles reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament and maintained a top-25 national ranking. There, he worked closely with a roster that featured five All-BIG EAST honorees and an AVCA All-American. He contributed to in-game strategy, statistical analysis, and middle blocker development while also assisting with team logistics and practice planning.
 
Stolz began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Averett University, where he earned an MBA in Leadership. He also holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from Lakeland University, where he was a member of the men's volleyball team. Stolz owned the Lakeland career kills record (895) until this past season, and he received All-Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League First Team honors in each of his final two seasons as a Muskie.
 
"There are so many people that I need to thank for helping me get to this point—SEMO Athletic Director Brady Barke and SEMO Head Volleyball Coach Julie Yankus," Stolz added. "It has been a memorable five seasons at SEMO, and I will forever cherish everyone that I worked with and coached during my time. I would also like to thank University of Florida Head Volleyball Coach Ryan Theis for his continued guidance and mentorship over the years.
 
I look forward to leading this program as we begin to compete for postseason championships. Go Royals!"
 
SOCIAL MEDIA
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