Park University's Director of Athletics, Kristin Gillette, has announced the hiring of Cody Chidsey as Head Men's Volleyball Coach and Erin Cooper as Head Women's Volleyball Coach ahead of the 2026-27 academic year.
About welcoming the two coaches to their new roles, Gillette said:
"Park University Athletics is excited to welcome two outstanding leaders to our volleyball programs as we prepare for the 2026-27 athletic season.
"Cody Chidsey brings valuable experience as an All-American student-athlete, collegiate coach, and leader. His competitive background, commitment to player development, and passion for mentoring young men will help our student-athletes maximize their potential both on and off the court.
"Erin Cooper provides leadership to our Women's Volleyball program with years of collegiate coaching experience and a deep understanding of Park University Athletics. Her knowledge of our culture, commitment to student-athlete success, and steady leadership will provide a strong foundation for continued growth and achievement.
"We are excited to welcome these knowledgeable and dedicated leaders to our coaching staff. Each brings credibility, integrity, and a student-centered approach that will positively impact our programs and the future of Park Athletics."
Chidsey to Lead Men's Volleyball
Chidsey joins Park after coaching at both the NCAA and NAIA levels. Most recently, he served as a head coach with KC Challenge Volleyball Club in Olathe, Kansas, where he led athlete development and team operations for players ages 12-17.
Prior to his club experience, Chidsey served as an assistant coach at the University of Saint Mary and spent three years at Rutgers University-Newark, including time as the program's head coach. Throughout his career, he has focused on recruiting, player development, academic accountability, and building strong relationships with student-athletes and their families.
As a student-athlete, Chidsey enjoyed an outstanding playing career at Rutgers University-Newark. He was a two-time AVCA All-American and was inducted into the Rutgers Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2025.
"I am incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Park University Men's Volleyball program," Chidsey said. "Park University's commitment to developing Champions of Character aligns perfectly with my own coaching philosophy of building exceptional student-athletes, leaders, and young men.
"I look forward to fostering a culture of accountability, servant leadership, and competitive excellence while creating an environment where our student-athletes can thrive academically, athletically, and personally. My family and I are excited to become part of the Park University community, and I can't wait to get to work building relationships with our players, alumni, campus partners, and supporters as we pursue success both on and off the court."
Cooper Named Head Women's Volleyball Coach
Cooper brings more than two decades of collegiate coaching, teaching, and student-athlete development experience to Park University.
Most recently, she served as a Human Resource Specialist and Program Manager for the Clay County Public Health Center while remaining active in community leadership and wellness initiatives. Prior to that role, Cooper spent seven seasons as Head Volleyball Coach at Benedictine College, where she oversaw all aspects of the program, including recruiting, budgeting, student-athlete development, scheduling, fundraising, and game-day operations.
Her coaching career also includes stops as head coach at Seminole State College and Dodge City Community College, as well as assistant coaching positions at Mercer University and MidAmerica Nazarene University. Throughout her career, Cooper has been recognized for her commitment to student-athlete success both in competition and in the classroom.
In addition to her coaching experience, Cooper has served in numerous leadership positions within higher education, including Faculty Senate, the Presidential Advisory Board, and conference committees within the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
"I am honored for the opportunity to lead the Women's Volleyball program at Park University and continue the tradition of excellence established by those who came before me," Cooper said. "I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our student-athletes, alumni, and supporters while creating an environment that promotes academic achievement, personal growth, and competitive success. My goal is to develop confident leaders on and off the court while representing Park University with pride."
Cooper earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Wellness and Business Management and her Master of Science in Education in Sport Administration and Management from Wayne State College. She was also a collegiate volleyball and basketball student-athlete during her time at Wayne State College.
Park University Athletics is excited for the future of Pirate Volleyball under Chidsey's and Cooper's leadership and looks forward to the continued growth and success of both programs both on and off the court.