Indiana University women's volleyball head coach Steve Aird is optimistic about the program's future, predicting an "impressive stretch" over the next few years. Aird, who is entering his eighth season at Indiana in 2025, expressed his confidence at Big Ten Volleyball Media Days in Chicago.
Aird highlighted the exceptional alignment and depth within the team, stating, "This is the most aligned program, deep top-to-bottom group of people that I've been around since 2013 when I won a championship at Penn State". He also acknowledged the program's recent recruiting success, attributing it to the efforts of associate head coach and recruiting coordinator Rachel Morris, as well as assistant coaches Kevin Hodge and Matt Kearns. The Hoosiers' 2025 roster includes seven freshmen and one transfer, Jessica Smith, a former UCLA beach volleyball player. Aird's recruiting efforts have landed some of the nation's top prospects, including outside hitter Charlotte Vinson, the program's highest-ranked recruit ever.
Players are equally enthusiastic about the team's prospects. Middle blocker Ava Vickers noted the hunger and competitive spirit of the new players, saying, "The energy right now is awesome. They came in just hungry, honestly. They want to work. They want to compete". Opposite hitter Avry Tatum echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact of the freshmen on the team's competitiveness and overall environment.
Since 2022, Aird has guided the Hoosiers to 52 wins, including 28 in the Big Ten. In 2023, the team achieved a 21-12 record, matching the school record for most wins in a season and securing 11 Big Ten victories for the first time since 1999.
Aird's contract extension, running through the 2029 season, reflects the university's confidence in his leadership. Indiana Vice President and Athletic Director Scott Dolson acknowledged the program's impressive growth under Aird, noting their competitiveness within the Big Ten.
The Big Ten conference has undergone significant changes, welcoming volleyball powerhouses like Oregon, USC, UCLA, and Washington. Despite the increased competition, Aird believes the Hoosiers are on the verge of a successful period.
The Indiana Daily Student published an investigation in May 2022 with allegations from former players about Aird. The allegations included creating a program built around punishment and dismissiveness of mental abuse. Indiana University investigated the claims, but cut the investigation short. Aird addressed the questions and stated that the changes to the program have been slight in staffing and training.
Despite past challenges and controversies, Aird remains focused on the future, with a supportive coaching staff, talented roster, and a belief that the Indiana women's volleyball program is poised for an "impressive stretch".
