As the #2 team in the country, Wayne State College volleyball, opens the NSIC Tournament, head coach Scott Kneifl is being highlighted after increasing his win total past 500 for his Wildcat career.
Coach Kneifl said it is a rewarding feeling to be at a place that has supported him so well but he credits his talented players and everyone on staff.
"Two of the best assistants in the country in coach (Kim) DePew and coach (Katie) Morris," said Kneifl. "Support from our Athletic Director Mike Powicki and President Marysz Rames. It just goes to show that we love doing what we do and I love this place."
Coach Kneifl served as the assistant coach for two years prior to becoming the head coach.
"I don't feel like it's a job," said Kneifl. "I'm really fortunate to do what I love. I don't feel like I go to work every day, I feel like I go to a place that I really enjoy. I enjoy the people I work with and the people around us. Just very proud to be a Wildcat."
In 21 seasons on the Wildcat bench, coach Kneifl has now accumulated a record of 501-155 following a 3-1 victory against the seventh-seed of Northern State on Nov. 18 in Wayne during the NSIC quarterfinals.
The Wildcats secured their fourth NSIC regular season crown including the third in the past four years following a 3-1 win over Northern State on Nov. 15 to end the regular season.
Coach Kneifl added the 'Cats have been stressing one point at a time.
"I really felt like we didn't stress," said Kneifl. "Our next ball mentality was really good. We were able to play pretty well this past weekend to close out the regular season."
#2 (NSIC)/#2 (DII) Wayne State College will next take their 14-match win streak and 27-3 record up against #3/#11 St. Cloud State at 5 p.m. on Nov. 21 in St. Paul, MN during the NSIC semifinals.
Coach Kneifl mentioned the Wayne State College volleyball culture is like a family.
"There were quite a few alums back this last weekend that we got to visit with and talk to," said Kneifl. "To hear their stories and how they really enjoyed their time here at Wayne State and within our program means a lot."
Even after graduating two All-Americans last year and now starting two freshmen and three sophomores, #2 Wayne State College is continuing to impress those outside the program.
"Great teams have great teammates and that's what this group has," said Kneifl. "It doesn't really mater if you're a starter, a role player or not getting to play everyone in that group of 15 truly believes they're a big part of this team and they are."
The NSIC finals are slated for Nov. 22 in St. Paul, MN at 5 p.m. with the winner earning an automatic berth into the postseason.
The NCAA Volleyball selection show is scheduled for Nov. 24 at 6:30 p.m. on NCAA.com.
