GAINESVILLE, Fla. — On Monday, Ryan Theis was appointed as the new head coach of the women’s volleyball team at the University of Florida, nearly two decades after he previously served as an assistant coach under the legendary Mary Wise.

Mary Wise, who led the Gators for 34 successful years and amassed a staggering 987 victories, announced her retirement earlier this month.

Theis was part of Wise’s coaching staff from 2006 to 2007, before embarking on a remarkable coaching career that included 11 years at Marquette University. There, he guided the Golden Eagles to an impressive ten appearances in the NCAA Tournament.

In addition to his stint at Marquette, Theis has coaching experience from his time as head coach at Ohio University from 2008 to 2014, as well as assistant coaching positions at Northwestern, Indiana, and Eastern Illinois.

During his brief tenure in Gainesville, Theis’ teams compiled an impressive 59-6 overall record, secured two conference championships, and reached the regional semifinals of the NCAA Tournament.

Moreover, Theis is married to Jenny Manz, a celebrated former volleyball player at Florida, further connecting him to the Gators’ rich athletic legacy.