Beach Volleyball Icon Jose Loiola Named Gamecocks Head Coach
On May 23, 2025, the University of South Carolina made a landmark announcement in collegiate beach volleyball: José Loiola, a legendary figure in the sport, was appointed as the new head coach of the Gamecocks’ beach volleyball program. This move marks a significant chapter in the evolution of South Carolina’s beach volleyball team, as they aim to establish themselves as a national contender.
Born on March 28, 1970, in Vitória, Brazil, José Geraldo Loiola has been a prominent figure in the world of beach volleyball for over three decades. As a player, he achieved remarkable success, winning 55 tournaments and amassing over $1.9 million in prize money across the AVP and FIVB circuits. Notably, he secured the gold medal at the 1999 Beach Volleyball World Championships in Marseille, partnering with Emanuel Rego. The duo was later honored as FIVB Team of the Decade for the 1990s. Loiola also represented Brazil at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and earned a silver medal at the 2001 World Championships with Ricardo Santos .
Transitioning from player to coach, Loiola has made significant contributions to the development of beach volleyball in the United States. He served as a coach for the U.S. Beach National Team, mentoring athletes such as Sara Hughes, Kelly Claes, and Tri Bourne. His coaching prowess was recognized in 2025 when he was named the AVCA Collegiate Beach Assistant Coach of the Year, reflecting his impact on the sport .
The decision to hire Loiola as head coach is a strategic one for South Carolina. Athletic Director Ray Tanner expressed confidence in Loiola’s ability to elevate the program, stating, “José’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to guide our beach volleyball team to new heights.” The Gamecocks, under his leadership, aim to build a program that competes at the highest levels of collegiate beach volleyball.
Loiola’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and a winning mentality to the team. His experience in coaching elite athletes and his understanding of the intricacies of beach volleyball will be invaluable assets as the Gamecocks strive for success in the competitive Southeastern Conference and beyond.
With José Loiola at the helm, the University of South Carolina’s beach volleyball program is poised for a promising future. His leadership is anticipated to foster a culture of excellence, attracting top talent and elevating the team’s performance on the national stage. As the Gamecocks embark on this new chapter, the collegiate beach volleyball community will be watching closely, eager to see the impact of one of the sport’s most respected figures.
