Dr. Jaime Gordon was introduced as the CEO of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) on July 1st, 2023. Since taking the helm, Gordon has demonstrated a visionary approach, launching key initiatives that have significantly advanced the association’s mission and impact. Among his achievements, Gordon has spearheaded the expansion of membership benefits and the enhancement of digital resources for members, ensuring that the AVCA remains at the forefront of providing valuable support to volleyball coaches nationwide.
A strong advocate for volleyball at both the federal and NCAA levels, Gordon has engaged directly with policymakers to promote legislation and policies that protect and grow Olympic and broad-based sports. He launched the AVCA First Serve Showcase, a nationally televised event that has become a landmark moment to open the collegiate season, demonstrating the AVCA’s leadership in navigating the sport’s rapid growth and expanding national visibility. Under his guidance, the AVCA has also seen significant increases in membership and engagement, culminating in the successful execution of the largest annual convention in the association’s history.
Gordon’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating the AVCA Beach Pairs National Championship, rebranding the AVCA to better reflect its mission and values, and forging key partnerships with the international volleyball community. He has built collaborative relationships both inside and outside of volleyball—including media, corporate partners, and other sports associations—that have strengthened the sport’s position and the AVCA’s capacity to serve its members. His efforts have led to significant growth in corporate engagement and revenue, enhancing the association’s financial stability and reach. Additionally, Gordon has worked closely with television networks to elevate the production and exposure of volleyball on national television, bringing greater visibility to the sport.
In addition to these accomplishments, Gordon created the Volleyball 4 All initiative, aimed at increasing access to the sport for diverse communities. He has increased the association’s commitment to philanthropic initiatives, including the T.E.A.M. Awards. Gordon has modernized the AVCA’s membership structure, making it more inclusive and accessible, and has committed to improving the association’s digital marketing and online presence to better engage with members and the broader volleyball community.
Prior to joining the AVCA, Gordon served as the Director of Athletics for Morehead State University from 2019 to 2023. During his tenure, he built a culture that placed the student-athlete at the heart of the department, made significant capital improvements, established innovative corporate partnerships, and implemented a pioneering mental health support system. He also spearheaded a new approach to fundraising, hospitality, development, and community philanthropy, yielding successful results, including securing the largest single gift in MSU Athletics history.
Before transitioning to an administrative role, Gordon enjoyed a distinguished coaching career. He spent 20 years as the head coach for Morehead State (2003-2023), becoming the University’s winningest coach in any sport. Under his leadership, MSU won 12 championships and made four postseason appearances. Prior to his tenure at MSU, Gordon served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of Kentucky (1999-2003). His first collegiate head coaching role was at Division II institution West Virginia Wesleyan (1996-1999), where he led the Bobcats to two conference championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances. Gordon began his coaching career as a volunteer coach at the University of Kentucky (1993-1995) and also served as Head Coach for Henry Clay High School (1994-1996).
Gordon earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a focus on coaching education, from Morehead State. He also holds a Master of Science in Sport Management, a Bachelor of Architecture, and a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from the University of Kentucky. He and his wife Ashley reside in Lexington, Kentucky. They have two daughters: Sydney, a dental student at the University of Kentucky, and Jamison, a volleyball student-athlete at Xavier University in Cincinnati.
Areas of Responsibility
Corporate Partnerships, Strategic Relationships, Marketing, TV, Planning, Linkages to Other Associations, Legislation, Board Relations & Recruitment