Central Arkansas volleyball coach John Newberry has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him with the program through the 2028 season. The announcement follows a successful period for the team, which won the 2025 ASUN Conference Tournament and saw Newberry named the 2024 ASUN Coach of the Year.
“As a proud graduate of UCA, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue coaching here and to be extended a multi-year contract. I sincerely appreciate Matt Whiting’s trust and belief in me and my leadership. This volleyball program has experienced tremendous success, and it means a great deal to be part of something so special. I’m excited to continue building this program and laying a strong foundation for long-term success on and off the court,” said Newberry.
Newberry graduated from UCA in 2005 and became head coach in 2020. He previously served as an assistant coach from 2012-2014 and associate head coach from 2017-2019. Under his leadership, Central Arkansas has secured regular season titles and conference tournament victories in both the Southland Conference and ASUN Conference, along with four NCAA tournament appearances.
Athletic Director Matt Whiting commented on Newberry’s impact: “Our volleyball program has excelled under Coach Newberry’s leadership, and we look forward to continuing this momentum as we move into the United Athletic Conference. Coach Newberry and his staff have done a great job developing talent and setting a standard within our program both academically and athletically. With this extension, I am excited that he and his family will continue to call Conway home and look forward to working with him to build on our 2025 championship campaign.”
