Michael Houlihan is entering his first season as the associate head coach and fourth with the UMass Boston volleyball program. Houlihan was promoted to the associate head coach position in June after spending his first three seasons in Boston as the assistant coach.

During his three seasons with the Beacons, Houlihan played an integral part in transforming the program into one of the most successful squads in the history of UMass Boston. While on the bench, the New York native has helped the Beacons to three straight Little East Conference championships, a NCAA New England Regional crown, and the program's first appearance in the NCAA Division III National Championship tournament (2010).

On top of the team's success, Houlihan has also worked with some of the top players in the country including the program's all-time leader in assists in setter Cassy Hanneman '12 and the all-time leader in kills and the program's first and only three-time All-American in Shannon Thompson.

Prior to coming to Boston, Houlihan coached the Midlakes High School Varsity Boys Volleyball team in New York. Houlihan also spent time as the Head Coach for the 14's All Long Island Boys Club Team.

Prior to his entry into the coaching arena, Houlihan enjoyed a four-year career for the Nazareth College Men's Volleyball squad. He later graduated from Nazareth with a business administration degree in sports management.

Houlihan currently resides in Boston with his new wife and will be graduating from UMass this December with his MBA.