Coach Speak: Matt Buttermore

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What stands out to me about Omaha is it is a growing institution that has a strong vision of what it is and where it’s going. In both academics and athletics there is a great history of success and a great vision for the future. Academically we have nationally known programs, great partnerships with the city and a beautiful and growing campus. Athletically you can see the continuing fulfillment of administration’s vision with the addition of the baseball and softball complex in the area by Baxter Arena. I think when potential students and families of all types of interests visit, they will see the imprint UNO leaves on the surrounding community, and can also see that our impact will continue to grow. 

When Laura and I came to interview for our jobs, we got the impression that everyone here is focused on helping student athletes develop as students and people, not just athletes. Of course we’ve found this to be true during our relatively short time here. Coaches, staff, administration and everyone - they are all truly in college athletics to support and aid in the success of all our Maverick student-athletes, on and off the court. 

Speaking of the coaches – they have been a lot of fun to work with! Obviously, we have great assistants in the volleyball program in Maggie and Kelly. Beyond our volleyball group it has been fun to get to know and bounce ideas around with the other coaches in the department.  I’m always excited to walk through the doors of Sapp, whether I will be spending most of my day in the gym or the office.

COVID-related shutdowns and protocols have presented challenges for all of us. In addition to logistics and health concerns, we are rapidly approaching the one-year milestone since our last official match or outside competition of any sort. We have had to answer the question as coaches and student-athletes - why do all of this? For Omaha volleyball, this has meant focusing on our values, our relationships and our love of the game. I have loved being in the gym, in book groups, team meals and on Zoom this fall growing with our team. Because of that, I’m as excited as everyone else is to mix it up this spring! Go MAVS!