University of Hawai'i at Manoa Athletics

Charlie Wade – Hawai‘i Men’s Volleyball Head Coach
“Josh was a special player and a special coach for our program. It is awesome to see him become the head coach of our women’s program. I know this was one of his dreams when he left our team. He is one of three players I have coached that while they were still playing, I knew they would become a coach. Josh was a huge part of our success while he was on staff with us, he had a curiosity and hunger to learn everything he could about collegiate coaching. He was already an accomplished player but you could tell he was going to become a head coach and he was going to be very good at it when that day arrived. Now we are here and I am so happy for him and Tehane, Shilo, Kamanu, Kupa’a, Keahi and Kala. Welina mai i ka home!”
 
Dave Shoji – Former Hawai‘i Women’s Volleyball Head Coach
“Josh is an excellent choice to lead the Rainbow Wahine. He’s familiar with the landscape, he is a tremendous mentor to his athletes, and he knows the game inside and out. I’ve known him since he was a player here, and he has always been a true model of character and professionalism. I wish him the absolute best as he takes the helm of our proud Rainbow Wahine volleyball program. I’m confident Josh will make an immediate, positive impact, and our fanbase should be very excited about this selection.”
 
Ryan McGuyre – Baylor Women’s Volleyball Head Coach
“Joshua Walker is the perfect hire for Hawaii. He is an incredible man of integrity that knows how to compete, teach, and train at the highest level. More importantly, he understands family and culture. He builds relationships while building championships. His servant leadership makes everyone around him better. Alumni, fans, boosters, co-workers, and future Warriors should be very excited. I am extremely confident that he will transform lives and raise the level of success for UH for many years to come.”
 
Jerritt Elliott – Texas Women’s Volleyball Head Coach
“I’m thrilled to see Joshua named the new head coach at the University of Hawai‘i. Having spent a year as a student-athlete at Hawai‘i, I experienced firsthand what makes this program so special. It is one of the great programs in college athletics, supported by an incredible community, passionate fans, and a rich tradition of excellence. Joshua understands Hawai‘i and its unique culture, having previously served as an assistant coach for Charlie Wade on the men’s side. He is the perfect person to lead the program into its next chapter. His exceptional volleyball knowledge, strong leadership, genuine commitment to developing young women, and ability to build meaningful relationships make him an outstanding choice for this role. He has a unique talent for connecting with players, staff, alumni, and supporters while creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the court. I am excited about the future of Hawai‘i volleyball and the continued success that lies ahead for the program. Most importantly, I am incredibly happy for Joshua and for the people of Hawai‘i, who are gaining a leader of tremendous character, vision, and passion.”
 
Dan Fisher – Pittsburgh Women’s Volleyball Head Coach, Former Rainbow Warrior Volleyball Player
“I’ve had the pleasure of coaching Josh Walker as a student athlete at Hawai‘i as well as having him on staff with Team USA. He is a great coach and an even better human. Josh knows and welcomes the responsibility the job holds. He is ready to lead. The Rainbow Wahine are in good hands.” 
 
Marie Zidek – DePaul Women’s Volleyball Head Coach, USA Volleyball U17 and U23 Head Coach
“UH has selected one of the brightest rising leaders in volleyball and collegiate athletics. Joshua brings the experience, knowledge, and preparation to meet this moment, and he is poised to make an immediate impact on Hawai‘i’s storied program. Having watched him on the recruiting trail and worked directly with him through the USA Volleyball NTDP program, I can say with confidence that Hawai‘i is gaining an elite competitor, a values-driven leader, and the right person to guide this historically successful program into its next chapter.”
 
Avery Skinner – USA Volleyball Women’s National Team Member, 2024 Olympic Silver medalist
“Josh has a unique ability to make the game of volleyball feel simple while maintaining the highest standards of excellence. His knowledge of the game, attention to detail, and ability to connect with players sets him apart as a coach and a leader. He brings tremendous passion and energy to everything he does. The University of Hawai‘i is getting an outstanding coach and an even better person.”
 
Joe Worsley – Former Rainbow Warrior All-American Setter
“First off, this is a home run hire in many ways but most importantly the person and the care that Josh puts into his role no matter what it has been in his career has been what stands out to his athletes and colleagues. When you step into a role with the tradition and history that the Rainbow Wahine volleyball program carries, there are certain expectations and standards expected by the entire state of Hawai‘i. Josh not only understands all aspects of playing and coaching for the University of Hawai‘i but lives the values that the people and state expect day in and day out. I couldn’t be more happy for Josh, his family, the entire Rainbow Wahine volleyball program, and the state of Hawai‘i as a whole. I can’t wait to see what’s to come.”
 
Lauren Briseño – USA Volleyball Women’s National Team Member, Former Baylor Libero
“Joshua Walker is the exact person to lead this program. Not only is he a diligent coach, but his ability to connect with his players provides a trustworthy environment. He brings the kind of character, vision, and work ethic that inspires people to be their best every day. Hawai‘i volleyball is in incredible hands and I’m truly blessed to have gotten the opportunity to cross paths with not just an amazing coach, but an incredible human being.”
 
Chris McLachlin – Hawai‘i Volleyball Color Commentator, Long-Time Coach
“I have been lucky enough to watch Josh Walker’s journey as a player, remember Sky Walker? Then as a professional in Europe, and finally as an assistant coach. He is knowledgeable, kind, experienced, and most importantly, a life-long learner. He is also a tireless worker and will hit the ground running. Charlie Wade trained him well and I’m sure Baylor did, too.”