Mike Sealy

Mike Sealy is an American volleyball coach and former player, best known for his tenure as head coach of the UCLA Bruins women's volleyball program. A standout setter during his collegiate career for the UCLA Bruins men's volleyball team, he later transitioned to coaching, leading the UCLA women's team to the 2011 NCAA national championship. His coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by his playing experience under legendary coaches like Al Scates and his work within the USA Volleyball pipeline.

Early life and education

Mike Sealy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and attended Iolani School, a prominent college-preparatory institution. He developed his volleyball skills in the state's competitive high school scene before moving to the mainland to pursue higher education. Sealy enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he majored in history and joined the storied UCLA Bruins men's volleyball program. His time as a student-athlete in Westwood laid the foundation for his deep connection to the university and its athletic traditions.

Playing career

As a player for the UCLA Bruins men's volleyball team from 1989 to 1992, Sealy served as the starting setter under head coach Al Scates, a figure central to the sport's growth in the United States. He was instrumental in helping the Bruins secure NCAA national championships in 1991 and 1992, earning All-American honors during his senior season. Following his collegiate career, Sealy played professionally overseas for several years, competing in leagues in Finland and Switzerland, which broadened his understanding of international volleyball styles and tactics.

Coaching career

Sealy began his coaching career as an assistant for the UCLA Bruins women's volleyball team under head coach Andy Banachowski, a pioneer in women's collegiate volleyball. He later served as an assistant coach for the USC Trojans women's volleyball program, working with the Pac-12 rival. In 2010, Sealy returned to UCLA as the head coach of the women's volleyball team. His most notable achievement came in 2011 when he guided the Bruins to the NCAA national title, defeating Illinois in the final held in San Antonio. Throughout his tenure, which lasted through the 2023 season, his teams were consistent contenders in the highly competitive Pac-12 Conference, regularly appearing in the NCAA tournament and producing numerous All-American athletes.

Head coaching record

Over his 14-season career leading the UCLA Bruins women's volleyball program, Sealy compiled a significant overall win-loss record. His teams consistently finished with winning records in the rigorous Pac-12, one of the nation's premier volleyball conferences. The pinnacle of his record was the 2011 national championship season, and his squads made multiple appearances in the NCAA Regional Semifinals (Sweet Sixteen) and Elite Eight. His final season in 2023 concluded his long and impactful stint in Westwood.

Personal life

Mike Sealy is married and has children. He maintains strong ties to the Hawaii volleyball community, often participating in clinics and events. Following his departure from UCLA, he has remained involved in the sport through consulting and private coaching, leveraging his extensive experience from both the collegiate and professional levels. His legacy is firmly tied to UCLA's rich volleyball history, bridging the success of the men's program under Al Scates with the achievements of the women's program. Category:American volleyball coaches Category:UCLA Bruins women's volleyball coaches Category:UCLA Bruins men's volleyball players Category:1969 births Category:Living people Category:Sportspeople from Honolulu Category:Iolani School alumni Category:UCLA alumni