Virtue Adds Coach Gibbs to Coaching Staff
2/13/2026 1:55:00 PM | Volleyball
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- University of Michigan volleyball head coach Erin Virtue has announced the hiring of assistant coach Jason Gibbs from Arkansas State.
"We are thrilled to welcome Jason to the Michigan volleyball family," said Virtue. "He brings a unique combination of high-level playing experience, technical knowledge and genuine curiosity that will elevate our program. Jason's defensive expertise will be invaluable as we continue to build one of the premier defenses in the Big Ten, and his ability to connect with student-athletes will strengthen both our recruiting efforts and player development initiatives. His coaching philosophy aligns perfectly with our program's values, and I'm excited about the fresh perspective and energy he adds to our staff. Jason is going to make an immediate impact in our gym, and we can't wait to get to work."
Gibbs joins Michigan after serving two seasons as an assistant coach at Arkansas State. With the Redwolves, he worked with the passers and helped the team clinch the Sun Belt regular-season championship in 2024, the program's first since 2016. In 2025, Arkansas State won the A-Sun Tournament and advanced to the NCAA Tournament before falling to Baylor in the first round. Last season, the Redwolves averaged 14.48 digs per set with a .927 reception percentage. Prior to Arkansas State, Gibbs spent one season at his alma mater, Lewis University, as an assistant coach for the men's program.
As a player, Gibbs competed at Lewis University for five years, appearing in 81 matches and helping lead the Flyers to two NCAA Final Fours, two MIVA regular-season titles and two MIVA Tournament championships. He primarily served as a libero, recording 403 career digs and earning MIVA Defensive Player of the Week honors three times. Gibbs also brings international experience, having represented the USA Beach U17 and U19 National Teams. He earned gold medals at the U17 and U19 USAV Beach High Performance Championships and competed at the 2018 U19 FIVB Beach World Championships in Nanjing, China.
He earned his bachelor's degree in organizational communication from Lewis University.
Gibbs will join the staff alongside associate head coach Bjarne Huus and general manager/assistant coach Kassie Kadera. The Wolverines will play four matches in the spring season before beginning their fall competition schedule, which will be announced at a later date.
