HAMPTON, Va. (Jan. 8, 2024) – In a strategic move to elevate the Hampton University volleyball program, Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson Sr. introduced Ronaldo Pacheco as the new head coach of the Pirates Volleyball program. Pacheco, formerly the Associate Head Volleyball Coach at Coastal Carolina, brings an impressive resume filled with professional playing experience, national team coaching, and collegiate success.
Henderson expressed his satisfaction with the appointment, stating, "I am thrilled to announce Ronaldo Pacheco as our next women's volleyball coach. His wealth of experience, spanning from professional play to coaching at the highest levels, positions him as a transformative figure for our program. We look forward to his leadership in advancing the Pirate Volleyball program to new heights."
Pacheco, in expressing his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity, stated, "I am grateful and honored for the opportunity to take the role of head coach at Hampton. I want to thank President Darrell K. Williams, Athletic Director Anthony D. Henderson, Sr., and SWA K. Reina Edwards for the vision and the trust to lead the volleyball program at Hampton University. During my meetings and visits to campus, they have made their support for the volleyball program very clear, and I'm looking forward to starting this next chapter in the volleyball program."
Pacheco's journey in volleyball is marked by outstanding achievements. As a former professional volleyball player in Brazil and Argentina, he brings a unique perspective to coaching. In 2005, he assumed the role of head coach for the Club Jundiai men's squad, showcasing his leadership prowess. Pacheco also contributed to the success of the Brazilian men's and women's national teams as an assistant coach, playing a pivotal role in the men's team's first-place finish at the 2004 Olympics in Athens.
His playing career, spanning from 1983 to 2001, included stints with ten different teams, notably the Brazilian National Team, which secured a gold medal at the 1988 South American Junior Championship.
Before joining Coastal Carolina, Pacheco's coaching journey led him to UMBC, where he served as an assistant coach for two seasons. His tenure was marked by back-to-back American East Conference championships and NCAA tournament bids in 2020 and 2021. Pacheco's strategic insights and coaching acumen played a crucial role in the Retrievers' success during his time at UMBC.
Pacheco's coaching career began at his alma mater, Tulsa, where he initially served as a student manager for three years (2009-2012) before earning the role of assistant coach. His dedication and expertise were evident as he transitioned to Mississippi from 2014-2019, where he was eventually promoted to associate head coach. In 2017, Pacheco contributed to a historic season, guiding the Rebels to victory in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship and equaling the school's most wins (22) in the rally era.
A proud native of Campinas, Brazil, Pacheco holds a degree in psychology from Tulsa, graduating in 2012. His multifaceted background, including international playing experience, national team coaching, and collegiate success, positions him as a dynamic leader for the Hampton University Volleyball program.
As Coach Pacheco assumes the helm, the Pirates eagerly anticipate a new era of growth, development, and competitive success under his guidance.
What they are saying about Ronaldo Pacheco
"I selected Ronaldo as our coach based on his extensive international experience with renowned coaches Rezende and Zé Roberto. This experience from coaching the Brazilian men's and women's National Teams has prepared him to lead our young and talented Coastal Carolina team to victory in 2023. Ronaldo has also succeeded as an associate head coach in the NCAA DI SEC, winning several mid-major championships. These accomplishments make him an ideal fit for Hampton University. With the right players, I am confident that Ronaldo will guide the team to become champions."
Jozsef Forman
former Head Coach
Coastal Carolina University
"The players who commit to Hampton will absolutely love Ronaldo. He is one of the best on-the-court trainers I've ever worked with, and I know that he will definitely elevate the volleyball program at Hampton University."
Steven McRoberts
Head Volleyball Coach
Missouri State University
"Hampton University is fortunate to have Coach Pacheco as their new volleyball coach. With his extensive knowledge, passion for the game, and ability to connect with his players, he will undoubtedly elevate the program to new heights. The future looks bright for the Hampton volleyball program under Coach Pacheco's guidance."
Dega Dagama
former Head Coach
Southern New Hampshire University
"Ronaldo is going to make an immediate impact at Hampton. He is a phenomenal recruiter and an even better teacher of the game. He has played and coached at a very high level, and his knowledge of the game is remarkable. I am excited to see where he takes the program in the future."
Giovana Melo
Head Coach
CSU Bakersfield Roadrunners
