By: KSU Sports Information
KENNESAW, Ga. –Kennesaw State Owls head volleyball coach Karen Weatherington officially announced the addition of Orlando Gonzalez to her staff as an assistant coach on Friday. Gonzalez brings over 16 years of experience in the volleyball world to Kennesaw.
"We are very fortunate to have Orlando join our staff," Weatherington said. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from his previous head coaching positions at Rutgers and Michigan Tech. Orlando has an exceptional training philosophy that is right in line with my vision for the program. His high-level training background and strong midwest and east coast volleyball ties will impact Kennesaw State as we continue to brand the institution across the country."
Gonzalez's role will primarily involve training and player development, video and statistical analysis, while also assisting in recruiting and game strategy.
Gonzalez spent his last three seasons as the head women's volleyball coach at Michigan Tech University. While at Michigan Tech, he led the 2009 team to only its 2
nd NCAA Tournament appearance in its last 15 years. Touted as that season's runner up for Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Coach of the Year, Gonzalez produced numerous all-conference athletes during his tenure at Michigan Tech.
Prior to his time at Michigan Tech, he was an assistant coach at Northwood University during the 2008 season. At Northwood, he had a key role in directing the offensive strategies for a team that went on to win its first conference title in eight years.
From the 2005-2007 seasons, Gonzalez was the head coach at Big East member Rutgers. During his stay with the Scarlet Knights, he oversaw all phases of the volleyball program. His best season came in 2005 when he led his team to an 11-16 record, and got them to within one game of the conference tournament. The 11-16 record is the best season that Rutgers volleyball has had since his stint as its top coach.
Gonzalez got his start in coaching back in 1995 when he served as Master Coach and Regional Coordinator for USA Michigan Volleyball LLC up until 2004. He was the founding member of the first statewide age group development program for female athletes, and under his watch the team won several national tournaments.
A dual degree 2003 graduate of Michigan State University, Gonzalez currently resides in nearby Acworth, Ga. with his wife Carrie and his two daughters Makenzie and Graciela.
