Volleyball Mired In Mediocrity

Illinois once was the dominant Big 10 program in women's volleyball. Mike Hebert built the program from a doormat into a Final 4 team in 1987 & 1988. Heck, in 1992 & 1993 Illinois led the nation in attendance. In his 13 seasons at Illinois, Hebert led the Fighting Illini to four Big 10 titles, two perfect 18-0 records in the Big 10 and 11 straight NCAA tournament appearances!

However, in 1996 Hebert left Illinois for Minnesota. Not quite sure why. In any event, women's volleyball at Illinois has been stagnant since Hebert left. Only 5 NCAA tournament appearances since 1996. Currently 4-8 in the Big 10. I doubt Coach Guenther would fire Don Hardin, since Guenther hired him.