Full Breakdown
Robyn Ah Mow Resigns as Head Coach of University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Wahine Volleyball
4/30/2026, 10:10:01 PM
The Resignation Announcement
On April 29-30 2026, Robyn Ah Mow announced she will step down as head coach of the University of Hawai‘i women’s volleyball program, effective immediately. She said the decision follows extensive soul-searching and a desire to prioritize her family.
Background & Context
Ah Mow, a three-time Olympian and former UH All-American setter, succeeded legendary coach Dave Shoji in February 2017, becoming the third head coach in the program’s 52-year history. During nine seasons she led the Rainbow Wahine to seven NCAA Tournament berths, three Big West Coach of the Year awards, and multiple conference titles.
Performance Data
Official records list a 165-72 overall record (114-28 in Big West) and five straight conference championships from 2019-2024. The 2025 season ended 12-17, marking the program’s first losing record and ending a 31-year streak of NCAA appearances.
Official Statements
Athletics Director Matt Elliott called Ah Mow “the epitome of what it means to be a Rainbow Wahine,” praising her competitiveness, mentorship and legacy. President Wendy Hensel noted her impact “extends far beyond the volleyball court” and will inspire future generations. The university named associate head coach Kaleo Baxter interim head coach and launched a national search for a permanent replacement.
Criticism & Opposition
UH volleyball analyst Ryan Kalei Tsuji described the timing as “a little shocking,” pointing out that resigning three to four months before the season start left the program in a difficult position.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Ah Mow’s cumulative record—most cite 165-72, while one outlet reports 165-78 over eight full seasons. Conference titles are described either as five consecutive championships or as three regular-season titles plus two tournament titles. The resignation was announced in a press interview by some outlets and via a social-media post by others, creating minor timeline ambiguities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This wasn't an easy call to make. I've done a lot of soul searching, and right now the time has come to focus on my family. They've sacrificed so much to allow me to live out my dream of leading this program, and it's time I put them first,” — Robyn Ah Mow
- “I gave this team everything I had. My goal was always to push these players to be the best they could be, but more importantly, to make sure they leave here as strong, successful women. Wearing the 'H' was a privilege when I played, and coaching this program has been a true honor.” — Robyn Ah Mow
- “Robyn Ah Mow is the epitome of what it means to be a Rainbow Wahine,” — Matt Elliott, UH Athletics Director
- “Robyn's impact extends far beyond the volleyball court; she has been a tremendous ambassador for the University of Hawai'i and our entire state,” — Wendy Hensel, UH President
- “It’s a little shocking,” — Ryan Kalei Tsuji, UH volleyball analyst
What’s Next
Kaleo Baxter will lead the team on an interim basis while UH conducts a national search. A shortlist of candidates is expected in the coming months, aiming to restore stability before the 2026-27 recruiting cycle.
