Wayne State College head women’s volleyball coach Scott Kneifl is approaching the 500-win milestone, a mark that places him among the most successful coaches in NCAA Division II volleyball.
Kneifl says the accomplishment is less about numbers and more about the culture built within the program. Since taking over more than two decades ago, Kneifl has shaped Wildcat volleyball around discipline, fundamentals, and relentless effort.
“Volleyball has changed over the years, but our core hasn’t,” Kneifl said. “Hard work, ball control, and defense have always been the foundation here. We believe in that every day.”
Beyond winning traditions, Kneifl said he prioritizes a program centered on connection and support.
“We run our program like a family,” he said. “We care about our players as people. We want them to succeed in school and in life. There are tough days like any family, but that foundation matters.”
Competing in one of the nation’s toughest regions, Wayne State has consistently been a national contender. While reaching the 500-win mark is significant, Kneifl says the ultimate mission remains the same.
“Our goal is to win a national championship,” he said. “We’ve been close. It would mean a lot for this program and for Wayne State, not for me, but for this college and community.”
A Wayne State alumnus and northeast Nebraska native, Kneifl says relationships, not records define his legacy.
“The wins are great, but the relationships with our players and staff matter most,” Kneifl said. “I have the best assistants in the country, and they’re just as responsible for those wins.”
As the milestone approaches, the Wildcats continue forward with the same mindset that built the program. That is family, fundamentals, and a drive to finish what they started.
After a pair of wins over the weekend, Kneifl is now four wins away from the 500-win plateau. If Wayne State were to win out, he would pass the barrier on November 15 at home against Northern State, making him the 16th active Division II women’s volleyball coach to do so.