UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. – Saginaw Valley State University Director of Athletics John Lewandowski has announced the selection of Lana Rybkowski as the new head coach of the Cardinal women's volleyball program. Rybkowski becomes the eighth head coach in Cardinal history and begins her duties on Monday, August 5.

"Lana Rybkowski is one of the top assistant volleyball coaches in the country period," Lewandowski said. "Lana is well respected throughout the state and the entire Midwest. She is a relentless recruiter and tireless worker. After our initial phone conversation, Lana immediately became the top target in our search for a head coach."

Rybkowski joins the SVSU Athletics staff after seven years as an assistant coach with NCAA Division II Northwood University. The Timberwolves had their first winning season in four years in Rybkowski's first year with the team. She also helped them to a breakthrough season in the spring of 2021 as they went 9-6 overall and 8-4 in the GLIAC.

"I am thrilled to bring my coaching experience and passion for volleyball to Saginaw Valley State University," Rybkowski said. "I am committed to developing a competitive and cohesive team that excels both on the court and in the classroom. My goal is to foster an environment where student-athletes can thrive and achieve their full potential."

Before starting her coaching career, Rybkowski was a four-year standout for Northwood from 2004-07. She finished her collegiate career with 1,299 kills and 1,021 digs making her the sixth player in Timberwolves history with over 1,000 kills and digs. She earned First Team All-GLIAC honors in 2007 and ranked fourth in the conference in kills, second in aces, and third in points during her senior season.

After graduation, Rybkowski continued her playing career overseas as she competed professionally from 2009-14 in Europe. She spent three years in Clamart, France, and one year each in Menorca, Spain, and Stod, Norway, before wrapping up her playing career on the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) beach world tour from 2014-16.

"Her passion for coaching and the sport of volleyball is contagious," Lewandowski said. "Lana cares deeply for her student-athletes and pours her heart and soul into the program. She is eager to learn and lead.

"Lana is ready for this challenge and the future is indeed bright for the Cardinal volleyball program. She is a winner, and it won't take long for her to build a competitive program."