UND Volleyball Builds Winning Program with Focus on Character and Talent
UND Volleyball, under the leadership of head coach Jesse Tupac and recruiting coordinator Kristen Tupac, is successfully building a winning program by prioritizing both the skill level and character of their players. The Tupacs believe that recruiting the right individuals who possess qualities like desire, humility, gratefulness, and kindness is crucial for creating a strong team culture.
When evaluating potential recruits, the Tupacs spend considerable time examining not only their skills but also their personal character. They understand that while winning and losing are part of the game, the impact players can have on others, especially young fans, goes beyond the court. Coach Jesse Tupac emphasizes the importance of being role models and good stewards for the program, even in the face of tough losses or big wins.
Since taking over the program in December 2021, the Tupacs have been focused on creating a competitive roster and gradually building towards a winning program. The class of 2023 marks their first full recruiting class, consisting of six freshmen and two transfers. These players exemplify the qualities the Tupacs seek in recruits and bring valuable volleyball experience to the team.
Recruiting is a meticulous process for the Tupacs, with Kristen Tupac’s scouting spreadsheet containing up to 500 names of potential players. Their emphasis on character means that the recruiting process takes time, as they assess whether recruits will contribute positively to the team’s journey towards success. The existing players also play a role in this process, as no recruit commits without meeting the team, and the coaches value the input of their players.
One notable addition to the team is transfer middle Kaycee O’Dell, who embodies the qualities the Tupacs look for in players. Described as both a talented player and a phenomenal human being by Kristen Tupac, O’Dell brings a lightness and positive energy to the gym. Furthermore, players like O’Dell and Marissa Stockman, who joined the team last year, bring valuable experience and wisdom gained from their previous collegiate volleyball journeys.
The commitment of the Tupacs to elevate UND to the top of the Summit League and secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament stems from their own volleyball experiences. Both Jesse and Kristen played for Power 5 programs, with Jesse at UCLA under legendary coach Al Scates, and Kristen at Iowa State. Kristen continued her playing career professionally overseas and with the Women’s National team and Athletes Unlimited.
The Tupacs’ playing and coaching experiences enable them to connect with the players and gain their trust. They understand the challenges and demands of a volleyball season and what it takes to win. In just one year, they transformed a one-win program into a 12-win team that achieved notable success in its conference games.
The Tupacs acknowledge that building a winning program doesn’t happen overnight, and they recognize the importance of creating a high level of internal competition within the team. Their focus on pushing players to be the best version of themselves fosters growth and improvement, ensuring that the program continues to thrive.
By following this approach, UND Volleyball is positioning itself for tough competition in the upcoming 2023 season. The team’s non-conference schedule has become more competitive, and the Summit League promises formidable challenges. The Tupacs remain determined to achieve greatness, fully aware that the path to success involves facing obstacles and emerging stronger on the other side.
In summary, UND Volleyball, led by Jesse and Kristen Tupac, is building a winning program by recruiting players based on both their skill level and personal character. The Tupacs prioritize qualities such as desire, humility, gratefulness, and kindness. They have successfully transformed the program and are looking to achieve even greater success in the future.
