Skylar Lopas Joins Ohio State Women is Volleyball. A New Chapter in Coaching Career

Welcoming Skylar Lopas to Ohio State

The Ohio State women’s volleyball program is thrilled to announce a dynamic addition to their coaching staff with the hiring of Skylar Lopas as an assistant coach. This decision marks a significant milestone for both Lopas and the program, as he brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record from his previous coaching roles. As the volleyball community watches closely, let’s explore Lopas’ career journey, achievements, and what his addition means for Ohio State.

Coaching Tenure at Flagler College

Skylar Lopas spent the last three seasons as the head coach at Flagler College, where he left an indelible mark with an overall record of 43-40. His leadership was particularly noteworthy in conference play, where he achieved an 18-17 record. Under Lopas’ guidance, the Flagler volleyball team captured two Peach Belt Conference Tournament titles in 2022 and 2024, a testament to his ability to elevate team performance in crucial moments.

Lopas’ tenure at Flagler culminated in remarkable achievements, including guiding the team to the NCAA Tournament in both championship seasons. Not only did he lead the team to a regional final and a regional semifinal in 2024, but his coaching prowess also resulted in three players being named AVCA All-Americans. One standout player earned the prestigious title of PBC Setter of the Year and was recognized as the Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year during Lopas’ inaugural season. These accolades highlight Lopas’ ability to nurture talent and foster an environment of excellence.

Lopas’ Importance to Ohio State

The excitement surrounding Lopas’ hiring is palpable, especially from Head Coach Jen Flynn Oldenburg, who expressed her enthusiasm about adding him to the staff. She noted, “His passion for and knowledge of the game stood out during the interview process.” This recognition of Lopas’ credentials underscores the significant impact he is expected to have on Ohio State’s volleyball program.

Lopas is anticipated to play a pivotal role in developing young talent and building a competitive team culture. His commitment to making a positive impact on student-athletes is evident in his own words: “My goal is to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of these incredible student-athletes.” With this strong commitment and expertise, Ohio State fans can look forward to exciting developments in the upcoming seasons.

The Career Journey of Skylar Lopas

Before his successful stint at Flagler College, Skylar Lopas served as a volunteer assistant coach at the University of Florida from 2019 to 2022. During his time with the Gators, the team advanced to the NCAA Tournament three times, reinforcing Lopas’ reputation as a coach capable of driving teams to success.

At Florida, Lopas specialized in training middle blockers, focusing on enhancing positional development. His coaching resulted in the emergence of two AVCA All-Americans and helped a player lead the conference in blocks per set in 2020. This experience not only solidified his reputation as a top-tier coach but also showcased his ability to cultivate talent at the collegiate level.

Experience at North Florida and Michigan

Lopas’ coaching journey also includes valuable experience at North Florida, where he worked extensively with middle blockers, consistently achieving high rankings within their conference. His tenure at Michigan further solidified his coaching credentials as he coached an AVCA All-American, demonstrating his ability to develop exceptional talent across various competitive environments.

Contributions at the Club and High School Levels

In addition to his collegiate roles, Lopas made substantial contributions at the club and high school levels, coaching in Gainesville, Orlando, and Ann Arbor. His influence in these communities has positively impacted the growth of volleyball, as he worked tirelessly to promote the sport and develop young players. Through these experiences, Lopas has established himself as a transformative coach capable of bringing out the best in any team he joins.

A Long-Term Impact

With diverse experience and notable achievements, Skylar Lopas has proven himself to be a valuable asset in the realm of volleyball coaching. His arrival at Ohio State not only adds depth to the program but also marks a significant step forward in his career. The combination of his passion for the sport and his extensive knowledge creates a promising outlook for both Lopas and the Ohio State women’s volleyball program.

A New Era for Ohio State Volleyball

The addition of Skylar Lopas to the Ohio State women’s volleyball team signifies the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With a solid foundation built on previous successes and clear strategic plans, Ohio State is poised to become a formidable contender in upcoming tournaments. The coaching staff’s commitment to excellence, combined with Lopas’ innovative techniques, sets the stage for a competitive future.

Welcoming a Promising Future

Fans and the volleyball community are eagerly anticipating the positive changes that Lopas will bring to Ohio State. Known for his passion, knowledge, and experience, he is set to play a vital role in building a strong and competitive team. As the season unfolds, supporters will be watching closely to see how Lopas’ influence shapes the trajectory of the program.

Skylar Lopas’ journey is not just about coaching; it’s about creating a legacy and fostering a culture of excellence that will benefit the players and the program for years to come. His commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing player development will undoubtedly resonate throughout the Ohio State volleyball community.

The Road Ahead

As Skylar Lopas embarks on this new chapter with the Ohio State women’s volleyball program, the excitement is palpable. With his extensive background in coaching, a proven track record of success, and a passion for the game, he is well-equipped to lead the Buckeyes to new heights.

Ohio State’s volleyball program is entering a transformative phase, and with Lopas at the helm, there is a renewed sense of optimism and potential. The coming seasons promise to be filled with growth, achievements, and a strong competitive spirit as the Buckeyes aim for success on and off the court.

Stay tuned for the promising journey of Skylar Lopas at Ohio State, as fans and athletes alike look forward to the bright future ahead!