A new era has begun for Penn State men’s volleyball.
The team on Wednesday announced the hiring of longtime assistant Colin McMillan as the program’s fourth-ever head coach. He replaces the legendary Mark Pavlik, who retired following the 2026 season.
“I am honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to be the next head coach of Penn State Men’s Volleyball,” McMillan said in a university press release. “To continue the legacy established by Coach (Tom) Tait, Coach (Tom) Peterson and Coach Pavlik is a huge responsibility that I look forward to taking on. I would like to thank Dr. (Pat) Kraft and the administration for believing in our staff to lead this program and build upon the great foundation laid by all those that have come before us.”
McMillan has been on staff for the last 19 years, including 10 as an associate head coach. During his tenure, the Nittany Lions have won a national championship and 14 EIVA tournament titles, making nine Final Four appearances.
As a player, McMillan was a four-time All-MIVA selection at Ohio State and helped the Buckeyes to a national championship appearance in 2000. He also has experience playing and coaching for the United States national team, winning gold medals in each role.
McMillan has big shoes to fill, as Pavlik led the program for 32 seasons, including 27 EIVA championships and 26 NCAA tournament appearances. He developed the program into a consistent winner and had 34 players accumulate 69 All-American honors during his tenure.
“I am so grateful and so fortunate to have worked alongside Colin for the last 19 years,” Pavlik said in the release. “He has been an outstanding role model for our guys as a coach, father and husband. His integrity, compassion and leadership have served our program so well. He has helped to mold many minds and lives – mine included.
“Now, as he becomes the next head coach of Penn State men’s volleyball, I am thrilled to know our program will continue to improve. He knows and understands better than anyone the culture of this program, our student-athletes and the traditions which make this team special to all who came before. The future of Penn State men’s volleyball is in great hands!”
