Craig Skinner took over the Kentucky volleyball program in 2004, and since then has transformed the Wildcats into one of the country's best. In his 21 seasons at the helm, the Cats have won over 500 matches, has a .760 winning percentage, have made the NCAA Tournament every season, and has won a national championship.
On Tuesday, Skinner was rewarded for his efforts, and given a two-year contract extension. His deal now runs through the 2031 season. Athletic Director J Batt said in a press release:
Coach Skinner represents the type of excellence we want Kentucky Athletics to stand for. He has built a championship program, developed outstanding student-athletes, attracted record crowds and created an expectation to compete at the highest level
year after year. We’re bullish about where Kentucky Athletics is headed, and volleyball is a great example why. Craig has built something special here, and we’re excited about what’s ahead for the program.
Keeping Skinner in Lexington is a big deal for Kentucky. It may be known as a basketball schools, but the football team is a program on the rise, the volleyball team is a contender once again, and Kenny Brooks has the women's basketball team in the top 15. Success is contagious, so excellence across the varying teams helps all of the teams.
Congrats to Coach Skinner on the extension. If he were allowed to leave, he would be quickly hired elsewhere. Now, the eight-time SEC Coach of the Year is sticking around, and Big Blue Nation will certainly be glad of that.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Craig Skinner will stick with Kentucky through at least 2031
