USA Volleyball Mourns the Passing of Pioneer Coach Glen Lietzke, Founding Figure in American Volleyball

USA Volleyball recently mourned the passing of longtime coach Glen Lietzke. The volleyball pioneer passed away on Christmas morning after battling with cancer for more than four years.

The tragic passing of coach Lietzke sent the USA volleyball circuit into shock, as many paid their tribute to the founding figure in America's volleyball circle. The League One Volleyball's social media team paid tribute to coach Lietzke and wrote:

"We are heartbroken by the passing of Glen Lietzke, a pillar of the volleyball community and a true pioneer for the sport."

The team also highlighted coach Lietzke's and added:

"His incredibly generous spirit and impact will be felt for generations of athletes, coaches, and families. Rest in peace, Coach Glen. Your legacy lives on. 🖤🏐"

First Point Volleyball, a division of the USA Volleyball Foundation, also honored the co-founder of Austin Juniors while crediting him for the growth of the sport.

"First Point Volleyball mourns the loss of a dear friend and true pioneer of our game, Glen Lietzke," the message read. "Our game is immeasurably better because Glen was part of it."

Coach Lietzke founded the Austin Junior Volleyball team in 1984. Before founding the Junior Volleyball team, he served as a coach for the University of Wisconsin, Southwest Missouri State University, and the University of Texas. He was a fervent advocate for the boys' and men’s volleyball, and started multiple premier events, including the Southwest Boys Classic, Lone Star Classic, and the Tour of Texas.

Coach Lietzke was honored with the AVCA Hall of Fame in 2018 and the Greater Austin Sports Foundation Hall of Honor in 2022.

USA Volleyball pens heartfelt message for Coach Glen Lietzke following his passing

The USA Volleyball team's official social media profile also commended Coach Glen Lietzke's legacy and attributed his contributions to creating opportunities and influencing young athletes and coaches.

"We join the volleyball community in remembering Glen Lietzke, a true leader and innovator whose impact on our sport will be felt for generations. Glen’s lifelong commitment to growing volleyball and creating opportunity leaves a lasting legacy on the athletes, coaches, and communities he touched."

Along with coaching several teams at Austin Juniors, Coach Glen Lietzke also coached the U.S. junior and youth national teams. In 2001, he served as assistant coach for the women's U20 national team. Coach Lietzke is survived by his wife, Kathy, and his children, Nathan and Lauren.

Edited by Janhavi Shinde