Just a few days after completing her club season in China, American star Jordan Larson has embraced a new challenge. The MVP of the Tokyo Olympics will take on the role of assistant coach with Texas University in Austin, in the American collegiate system.
Larson takes on coaching duties in American collegiate system
The Tokyo Olympics MVP will be an assistant coach at Texas University
Published 02:59, 12 Jan 2022
The 35-year-old Larson had hinted at international retirement after she led the United States women’s national team to victory in Tokyo last year, but she remains active at the club level. She helped Shanghai Bright finish third in the Chinese League just a few days ago and is set to compete in the second edition of the Athletes Unlimited League in the United States in March, after winning the inaugural tournament last year.
“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be joining the Texas Volleyball coaching staff,” Larson said of her new role. “This is an amazing opportunity to be a part of the tradition and excellence of this programme and to help these ladies achieve their dreams. I'm extremely grateful to grow and learn in this position.”
Larson is one of the most accomplished American volleyball players in history. She has been part of the USA national team for the last 12 years, captaining the squad for most of that time, and led her country to numerous victories, including three consecutive triumphs at the FIVB Volleyball Nations League in 2018, 2019 and 2021, but also to victory at the 2014 FIVB Volleyball Women's World Championship. Besides winning gold in Tokyo, she also helped the North Americans claim silver at the London 2012 Olympic Games and bronze at the Rio 2016 Games.
“This is a home run hire,” head coach Jerritt Elliott reacted. “To have the most accomplished outside hitter in the history of USA Volleyball come be part of our programme is so exciting. For our athletes that aspire to be part of the national team to have someone that eats, drinks and sleeps volleyball will be an incredible opportunity. Jordan loves the game, wants to give back and will be a great mentor to all of the ladies that come into our programme.”
The American collegiate season will start in August and the Final Four will be played in Larson’s home state Nebraska, in December.
