Photo curiosity of Peace Athletics
By Jasani Garvin and Connor Ballou
William Peace University will begin competing in men’s volleyball during the 2026-27 academic year, marking a new chapter for the school’s athletics program.
As an NCAA Division III institution competing in the USA South Athletic Conference, Peace has continued to expand its athletic offerings. This addition of men’s volleyball reflects the university’s commitment to increasing opportunities for student-athletes and strengthening campus life.
Men’s volleyball has grown popular nationwide. According to the American Volleyball Coaches Association, seven new colleges have added men’s volleyball to their list of sports. By introducing men’s volleyball, Peace aligns itself with national trends while investing in the future of its athletics department. The program is expected to create new competition, rivalries, and opportunities for school spirit.
Coach Tim Byram was hired as the inaugural head Men’s volleyball coach.
“It was kind of a whirlwind when I got here. I had been in New England my whole life. In late April or early May, William Peace posted the application for the Men’s Volleyball program. So here we are,” said Byram.
Coach Byram speaks to how this will be a building process and will take time.
“I assume this will take roughly three years to have a few upperclassmen, to have balance on the roster, and to have competitive practices in the gym. That is kind of where we are at,” said Byram.
Students have expressed excitement about the decision.
Carson McGee, an exercise and sports science major, said the addition is a positive step forward.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for future volleyball players at Peace and a great sport to add,” McGee said.
However, not all reactions have been entirely positive. Ruben Garcia, a simulation and game design major, said he supports the idea but has concerns about funding.
“I like that they are adding a new sports opportunity, but I fear it may cut into the budgets of other sports more,” Garcia said.
His concerns underline broader questions about financial balance within the athletic department. Adding a new program requires funding for coaching staff, equipment, travel, and facilities, while maintaining support for existing teams remains a central issue as the university moves forward.
Athletic director Claude Shields is excited about adding this program.
“Men’s Volleyball is a growing sport in our region, and it seemed like a fit for us with the local club scene here in North Carolina. It also provides another on-campus sport for all of our students to enjoy in the spring semester,” said Shields.
Shields also spoke on how he thinks this program would fit in with the school’s athletic program.
“As we have started different programs, we want to build a solid foundation,” said Shields. “This takes time; Rome was not built overnight, but we think the student-athletes we will attract and retain will be outstanding members of our community and help grow our profile as an Athletic Department and institution as a whole.”