Kiko Santos, the head coach of the Wolves volleyball team, is a beacon of dedication and passion in the world of coaching.

With a focus on player growth and development, Santos approaches each season with a deep commitment to helping his team reach their goals.

For Santos, success is not solely measured by victories on the court but by the progress and improvement of each individual player.

"My personal expectation is to help growth in our players to help them achieve their goals," said Santos.

As the 2025 season approaches, Santos emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving these goals.

"Patience because it will be tested in practices and matches. Patience to compete well, patience to learn what is going to be effective, patience with one's self through the growth process of becoming a better volleyball player. With that being said you also need to have a component of perseverance in you. That thing inside of you that keeps you going through difficult times, through tough loses, difficult tests, etc," said Santos.

A New Team

Santos' excitement for the upcoming season is palpable, as he looks forward to working with a diverse group of players.

"The freshmen are extremely hard working and hungry for success, and our transfer players bring us some really good experience. Our returners have the experience now to know what is needed to be successful in this conference. The challenge is always to mesh these groups into one team," said Santos.

Blending the enthusiasm of the newcomers with the experience of the returners is a challenge that Santos embraces wholeheartedly.

He understands that the strength of the team lies in their ability to come together as a unified force, especially in adverse situations.

"There are many leaders on the team. I don't think it's one or two players, the strength of the squad will be determined by how unified we are when in adverse situations. Then, it won't be one or two players; it will be the entire team," Santos explained.

The SAC Race

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Santos acknowledges the competitiveness of the SAC race and the challenges that lie ahead.

With numerous teams vying for success, Santos recognizes the importance of staying in the pack and defending their home court.

"The SAC race is always very difficult. The challenge is always to try to stay with the pack. Win on the road and defend your home. It will be a very good fight again this year. Lots of teams, like us, have the hunger to be successful and fight for a place in the tournament," said Santos.

For Santos, the journey of the season is just as important as the destination.

He understands that growth and development take time, and he encourages his players to embrace the process.

"It's difficult to isolate one or two players that you feel will make an impact, the potential is there, but when it will happen is again dependent on that growth part," he explained.

As Santos and his team embark on the 2025 season, they do so with a shared understanding of the values that define their program.

With patience, perseverance, and a commitment to growth, they are ready to face the challenges that lie ahead and continue their pursuit of excellence.