1/10/2026
In a move that promises to elevate the volleyball programs at Manhattanville University, Matt Jessen has been named head coach for both the men’s and women’s teams. The appointment, effective August 2025, brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success to the Valiants. This comes as the men’s volleyball team enters the season ranked second in the Skyline Conference preseason coaches poll, receiving first-place votes from the conference’s coaches.
Jessen arrives at Manhattanville from Sacred Heart University, where he served as assistant women’s volleyball coach starting in July 2024. During his tenure, the Pioneers achieved 15 wins in the 2024 season, their inaugural year in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The team secured a fifth-place finish in the MAAC standings and earned a postseason berth, marking a strong debut in the conference.
Prior to Sacred Heart, Jessen held key roles in club and high school volleyball. Since 2022, he has directed the girls and boys programs at NOVA Volleyball in Trumbull, Connecticut, while also serving as head coach. In this capacity, he oversaw all aspects of the 16U-18U girls program, including coaching at high-level tournaments and practices. He provided private lessons and advanced skill clinics for athletes aged 10 to 18, developed coaching curriculums, and mentored aspiring collegiate players.
Jessen’s head coaching experience includes leading the boys varsity team at Fairfield Ludlowe High School in 2023-2024 and coaching boys volleyball with Mizuno East Volleyball Club. From 2021 to 2023, he was the head club volleyball coach at Quinnipiac University and an assistant coach at Fairfield Public Schools. Additionally, in 2022, he led a club men’s volleyball team to the New England Collegiate Volleyball League Division 2 championship.
A graduate of the University of Connecticut in 2023, Jessen brings his own playing background to the role. As a high school athlete at Fairfield Ludlowe High School, he served as team captain in 2017, contributing to the program’s development during a period of growth in boys volleyball.
With his energetic approach and focus on athlete development, Jessen is poised to build on Manhattanville’s volleyball traditions. The university community looks forward to the positive impact he will have on both teams as they compete in upcoming seasons.
