About this episode

Derek Olson discusses his journey from player to coach and the challenges of building a new Division I beach volleyball program at USD.

Tim Cates sits down with USD Beach Volleyball head coach Derek Olson for an in-depth conversation about a life built around the sport. Olson reflects on his journey from player to coach, including formative stops at Cal and the University of Washington, where he helped shape competitive programs and sharpen his coaching identity. Now, Olson faces his biggest challenge yet: building USD’s Division I beach volleyball program from the ground up. With the Toreros not scheduled to play their first match until 2027, he shares what it takes to start a program from scratch—recruiting, establishing standards, and laying a foundation built to last. Olson also dives into how earning his Master’s in Coaching and Exercise Science from Concordia University Irvine has influenced his philosophy, coaching style, and approach to culture-building. It’s a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look at long-term program development, leadership, and the patience required to build something meaningful before the first whistle ever blows. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Tim Cates

Guest: Derek Olson

Topics covered

• beach volleyball
• coaching journey
• program development
• leadership
• recruiting
• exercise science

Keywords

• Derek Olson
• USD Beach Volleyball
• coaching
• exercise science
• program development
• leadership
• recruiting

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: USD Beach Volleyball, Cal, University of Washington, Concordia University Irvine

Places: USD

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