Tom Mendoza Departs South Carolina, Takes Head Coaching Role at Marquette
South Carolina volleyball head coach Tom Mendoza is moving on to a new opportunity, as the school announced Sunday night that he has accepted the head coaching position at Marquette in the Big East.
Mendoza, who led the Gamecocks since 2018, expressed gratitude for his time in Columbia.
“I want to thank the University and Gamecocks fans, but most importantly the coaches, staff, and athletes who I’ve worked closely with over the past seven years,” Mendoza said in a statement. “Getting to experience them achieve their individual and team goals and develop as people is why we do this job. I am excited for what the current and future Gamecocks will achieve because I know it will be great. I am eternally grateful for my seven years in Columbia.”
Mendoza Leaves Behind a Strong Legacy at South Carolina
Under Mendoza’s leadership, South Carolina made significant strides, reaching the NCAA Tournament four times in his seven seasons. In his first year at the helm, the Gamecocks recorded a 20-win season, snapping a 16-year postseason drought.
Mendoza departs USC with 106 career wins, ranking No. 3 in program history. He also holds the program record for most wins over ranked opponents (11), proving his ability to compete at the highest level.
Now, he takes over a Marquette team that finished 25-9 in 2024, eager to continue building on their success.
“I am honored to lead the program into a new era in which we can build on the success and history of those who came before us and work to reach new heights,” Mendoza said. “As college athletics becomes increasingly transactional, I believe the values-based, personalized college experience that Marquette offers will set us apart in recruiting and developing leaders and high-achieving student-athletes.”
South Carolina Begins Search for New Head Coach
With Mendoza’s departure, USC assistant coach Brittany Farrell will step in to handle day-to-day operations throughout the spring semester. Meanwhile, newly appointed athletics director Jeremiah Donati will oversee his first head coaching search.
“We are very thankful to Coach Mendoza for his service and contributions to our volleyball program,” Donati said. “We wish him all the best as he continues his career at Marquette. We will now begin conducting a national search to identify the best leader to guide our volleyball program.”
With USC now in the market for a new head coach, the program looks ahead to its next chapter, aiming to build on the foundation Mendoza helped establish.
