Northwestern University Athletics
Rusty Cooper Named Assistant Volleyball Coach at Northwestern
6/21/1999 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
June 14, 1999
EVANSTON, Ill. - Rusty Cooper has been named the top assistant volleyball coach at Northwestern University, as announced today by head coach Kevin Renshler. He comes to NU after spending the past four seasons as assistant coach at the University of Evansville.
"Rusty comes from established programs where he was an integral part in taking those teams to another level," Renshler said. "His dedication to both athletics and academics makes him a tremendous fit for Northwestern. I look forward to his commitment to our university in the years to come."
At Evansville, Cooper was instrumental in a rebuilding process that included a 79-spot jump in the R.P.I. and an increase in the total number of wins from nine in his first season (1995), to 19 in his fourth season (1998). Cooper was in charge of recruiting and ran the Aces' strength and conditioning program. He also assisted in scouting the opposition and the coordination of summer camps.
A native of Eaton, Ohio, and a former USA Volleyball player at the A and AA levels, Cooper served a one-year stint as assistant coach at Miami University (1994-95). The team went 19-15 that season and garnered an invitation to the NIVC Tournament.
Prior to that, Cooper was head coach at Northmont High School (Dayton, Ohio) in 1993 and 1994, and Eaton High School in 1992. While coaching in his hometown, Cooper led his team to a conference championship.
Cooper received his B.S. ED in physical education, athletic coaching and health from Bowling Green in 1992. He played on the men's club team for three years and assisted with the women's volleyball program that went 29-5 and earned an NCAA Tournament berth in 1991.
