LAS VEGAS (UNLVrebels.com) –The UNLV volleyball team has kicked off the 2024 offseason with several exciting staff updates. Head Coach Malia Shoji adds two very decorated coaches and elevates from within.  
 
Head coach Malia Shoji has elevated Gretchen Reinert to Recruiting Coordinator. Although just in her second year as a collegiate coach, Reinert helped the Rebels to their sixth-consecutive postseason appearance. Already known for being a tireless recruiter, she also lives up to high standards of hospitality at UNLV and Las Vegas.  
 
"Gretchen is a vital part of our success here at UNLV," mentioned Shoji, "Her commitment to high standards, competitive drive and work ethic make her an amazing role model for our student-athletes and a leader among our staff. Gretchen is an invaluable part of what we are building here at UNLV and continues to outperform her years of experience." 
 
The Rebels hire Brian Magbitang, who will serve as the director of volleyball. Magbitang most recently worked on the Nebraska Cornhuskers volleyball staff as the Video & Administrative Coordinator. He was instrumental to the program's National Championship runner-up finishes at the 2021 and 2023 NCAA DI Volleyball Championships. Originally joining the program in January 2020, he handled all aspects of coordinating game film, developing statistical reports for opponent scouting, and assisted with day-to-day administrative operations of the volleyball program. During the recent 2023 season, Magbitang and the Cornhuskers finished with a 33-2 record and earned a no. 1 RPI ranking in Division I. He was also a key piece in helping the program break the world record for women's sports attendance back in August of last year, drawing 92,003 fans to an outdoor football stadium match in Memorial Stadium against Omaha.
 
"Brian is going to be a game-changer for the Rebels," praised Nebraska volleyball head coach John Cook. "He helped win at Nebraska because of his work ethic, ability to think outside the box and his volleyball knowledge. He's a great teacher, relates with everyone and will bring a lot of fun and energy to the gym."
 
The Scarlet & Gray have also hired former 2018 NEC Coach of the Year, Ken Ko, to the coaching staff. Ko has the ability to support any area of the program with his high-level experience. Immediately, Ko will provide leadership in scouting, international recruiting and assist in all aspects of player development. 
 
"Ken Ko has always achieved more with less thanks to his passion, work ethic and experience at the highest levels," mentioned Shoji. "He is known as an elite trainer, proven recruiter and knows what it takes to win championships. His excitement for my vision of UNLV Volleyball and his commitment and understanding of what it takes to achieve it is invaluable to me."
 
He arrives in Las Vegas after running the helm at Long Island University. While leading the Sharks, Ko guided his team to eight consecutive Northeast Conference (NEC) Tournament appearances, three NEC regular season titles, two NEC Tournament championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances. He has served on the NCAA East Region advisory committee and the AVCA D1 All-Region Award Committee.  Ko also has coaching stops on his resume that include the University of San Francisco, the University of Florida, Washington State University, Cal State Fullerton and the USA Volleyball program. 
 
"I have known Ken for many years as a coach and now friend," said former National team player Nicole Branagh, "He has a passion and energy that is contagious. I am excited for him and the UNLV program, as he brings a wealth of volleyball experience and knowledge! As a player, I always felt Ken wanted to help me reach my potential, and he did. Not only on the court, but off the court as well. Having that support helped me continue my career to college and beyond and I know he continues that same passion for the players today."
 
With these two additions, Coach Shoji rounds out the coaching staff heading into off-season training and spring competitions. The Rebels have elevated their staff and are excited to see their influence in the coming months.  
 
"Character and high performers were two non-negotiables when making these hires and I could not be more pleased with the addition of Ken and Brian. Their impact has been felt immediately in the gym, recruiting, and most importantly in the genuine care of our student athletes.  I am more excited than ever about the future of this program and I have Elaini, our Director of Volleyball Operations, and this amazing coaching staff to thank for that."