Kentucky Volleyball Coach Craig Skinner Agrees to Contract Extension Through 2031

Craig Skinner Signs Contract Extension Through 2031

University of Kentucky Volleyball Head Coach Craig Skinner has agreed to a contract extension that keeps him in Lexington through 2031, UK Athletics announced on Tuesday. WKYT reported that the program’s winningest head coach has guided the Wildcats since 2005, compiling 21 straight NCAA Tournament appearances and nine consecutive Southeastern Conference titles during his tenure.

Athletic Department Leadership Extends Program Support

UK Athletics Director and Champions Blue CEO J Batt praised the long-term commitment to the program. Batt stated that Skinner represents the excellence the athletic department targets, pointing to championship output, developed student-athletes, and record crowds.

Skinner pointed to the long-term vision laid out by leadership in his remarks. The coach thanked university officials including President Capilouto, J Batt, Rachel Newman Baker, and Katie Eiserman while acknowledging the backing of Big Blue Nation since arriving in Lexington in 2005.

Skinner Leads Wildcats to National Title and SEC Crowns

Skinner took over a program in December 2004 that had not reached the NCAA Tournament in over a decade. His resume now includes the 2020 NCAA National Championship—the first volleyball title in SEC history—alongside Final Four berths in 2020 and 2025 according to UK Athletics.

The program secured the 500th victory of Skinner's 22-year tenure earlier this season. The Wildcats also captured nine consecutive SEC crowns starting in 2017 through the 2025 season, while producing 27 All-America honors under his guidance.

Upcoming Schedule and Matchups

The Wildcats travel to face No. 9 Tennessee on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Following that road contest, No. 4 Kentucky hosts No. 19 Texas A&M on Sunday, October 25, at 1 p.m. in a rematch of the 2025 NCAA National Championship Match.

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