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Pulliza steps down as Texas Volleyball Assistant Coach

AUSTIN, Texas -- University of Texas assistant women's volleyball coach Robert (Robbie) Pulliza has resigned his position, as announced Monday by Longhorns volleyball head coach Jerritt Elliott. Pulliza's resignation is effective as of Monday, May 31, and he will be pursuing non-coaching business opportunities in the near future.

Pulliza, 31, just completed his third year as Elliott's assistant at Texas. He joined Elliott's staff at Texas when Elliott assumed the role of Longhorns' head coach in the spring of 2001.

A national search for Pulliza's replacement will begin immediately.

During these past three years, Texas made NCAA Championship appearances in both 2001 (going 17-14) and 2002 (going 23-9), the 19th and 20th NCAA showings in the program's history. Both years, UT advanced to the NCAA second round. This past season, the Longhorns, beset by numerous injuries throughout the season, finished with a 15-14 overall record. In this three-year period, Pulliza helped develop two All-Americans (Mira Topic as a two-time All-American in 2002 and 2003, and Bethany Howden in 2003), five All-Region selections, and seven All-Big 12 Conference honorees.

"I have no doubt that the Texas volleyball program is headed in the right direction, and will have a place among the nation's elite teams for many years to come," Pulliza stated. "I have greatly enjoyed my time here at UT, but this is the right time for me to personally step aside, make a change and pursue other opportunities."

"I greatly appreciate Robbie's commitment to our volleyball program over the past three years," noted Elliott. "He has helped us develop our program, and with his help, our team is in a great position right now. I wish Robbie and his wife, Jamie, the very best as they move on."

Pulliza came to Texas from the University of Wisconsin where he was a two-year assistant coach, helping the Badgers claim the 2000 Big Ten title and NCAA tourney berths both years.

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