Head men’s and women’s volleyball coach KK Palea announced he is resigning from his position to focus on his family and other opportunities.

Palea joined Simpson in July 2020 as the head coach for the women’s team and later became the first head coach of the men’s program when it launched in 2022-23.

“We appreciate Palea’s dedication and contributions to both our men’s and women’s volleyball programs,” said Director of Athletics Marty Bell. “As we transition to new leadership, our focus remains on supporting our student-athletes and continuing to build competitive and cohesive programs.”

After a seven-year postseason drought, Palea guided the Storm women back to the conference tournament in just his second season, a feat they repeated each of the next two years. The Storm reached the conference semifinals for the first time since 2010 last season and achieved 42 victories under his leadership. Eight women earned 12 all-conference honors, including first team selections Emily Williams, Jessica Jacobs, and Marissa Salber.

On the men’s side, Palea spearheaded the program’s development from its inception, leading the team through its first two seasons of competition. Last spring, the Storm celebrated their first victory in program history.

A national search for Palea’s replacement will begin immediately.

*press release from Simpson Athletics