Emmanuel University is proud to announce the hiring of David Goss as the next Head Coach of the Men's Volleyball program. A two-time AVCA First-Team All-American, former NCAA record holder, and nationally recognized coach, Goss brings an exceptional blend of volleyball expertise, leadership experience, and Christ-centered mentorship to Franklin Springs.

Coach Goss had this to say about joining Emmanuel University, "When I watched the chapel services online and familiarized myself with Emmanuel's emphases on academics, athletics, and faith I recognized a place where I thought my wife and I could fit in very well with. After 17 years as a church planter and lead pastor, I recognized a time when it was good for me to step down and pursue other passions. Coaching volleyball was at the top of that list. Coach Friddle and his family have become fast friends and Tracey and I look forward to working with them and the rest of the incredible athletic department staff."
 
Goss arrives at Emmanuel following a highly successful tenure as Head Boys Volleyball Coach at San Marcos High School in Santa Barbara, California. Under his leadership, San Marcos captured back-to-back league titles, earned CIF Division I and II playoff berths, and posted one of the best records in program history at 26–2. He was named Channel League Coach of the Year in 2025.

His coaching background also includes serving as Youth Director and club coach for the Santa Barbara Volleyball Club, where he oversaw staff development, led competitive boys' teams, and helped multiple athletes navigate the collegiate recruiting process. Earlier in his career, Goss guided West Torrance High School to consecutive CIF playoff appearances and founded a beach volleyball training program featuring Olympian guest instructors.

Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Goss brings deep ministry experience to Emmanuel. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Seminary and spent more than 15 years in pastoral leadership, church planting, evangelism, and community outreach. His ministry background shapes a coaching philosophy centered on character formation, spiritual growth, and developing athletes into faithful servants of Christ.

Emmanuel Director of Volleyball, James Friddle, expressed his excitement about the hire, stating:

"I am beyond excited that God has brought Coach Goss to Emmanuel. He has a heart for growing faithful servants of the Lord and a passion for volleyball. Combining the two is only going to take our men's team to the next level. He has an amazing volleyball career and I cannot wait to see where God takes him and this team."
With decades of volleyball mastery, a proven record of program building, and a heart devoted to Christ-centered mentorship, David Goss is poised to lead Emmanuel Men's Volleyball into an exciting new chapter of growth, excellence, and spiritual impact."

Coaching Philosophy
Goss is known for his positive, athlete-centered approach that emphasizes elite fundamentals, disciplined habits, and a growth-oriented team culture. His technique-driven instruction focuses on serving, passing, attacking, blocking, and defensive systems, helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the court.

His ministry background informs his commitment to developing men of character—athletes who compete with integrity, serve with humility, and grow as faithful followers of Christ.

NCAA Experience

While Goss's NCAA recruiting experience is still developing, he has a foundational understanding of NCAA guidelines through his youngest son's career at UC Irvine—2026 National Runner-Ups. Emmanuel's leadership will support him through any additional NCAA transition, confident in his ability to adapt quickly and excel.

Education

• Doctor of Ministry, Fuller Seminary
• Master of Divinity, Asbury Theological Seminary
• B.A. in Communication, Stanford University

Awards & Honors

• Two-Time AVCA First-Team All-American
• Former NCAA Record Holder (55 kills in a match)
• Channel League Coach of the Year (2025)
• Multiple USVBA Nationals All-Tournament Teams
• Gold Medal & MVP, USVBA Nationals 55+ Division
• Stanford BLOCK S Award Winner

We are thrilled to welcome Coach Goss to the Lions Den!