CCU's Athletic Director, Brian Wall announced on Thursday morning that Bobby Blanken will be taking over the Cougar Volleyball program starting in June. Coach Blanken is moving about ten minutes west to CCU from Metro State University Denver where he has been serving as the Roadrunners first assistant coach since 2014. In his three year stint at MSUD, Coach Blanken helped lead a very successful program that went 18-0 in the RMAC this last season.

Prior to coaching at Metro State, Blanken was the Head Women's Volleyball Coach at The Master's College in Santa Clarita, CA from 2010-2014. During his time at The Master's College, Coach Blanken successfully built the program from a 7-22 first year record to a #6 NAIA Division I finish in his final year. Blanken was named the 2012 AVCA West Region coach of the year and 2012 Golden State Athletic Conference coach of the year. As a head coach, Blanken totaled a record of 87-56 (.608).

Beyond his success on the court, Bobby brings a passion for discipling young athletes in their faith.  He has his master's degree in Kinesiology from Fresno Pacific University, with a bachelor's degree in physical education from Missouri Western State University. Blanken had been teaching college courses at both Metro and Master's while coaching.  He and his wife are the parents of four children, the oldest being 11 and ranging down to two. 

Athletic Director Wall remarked, "I praise God for leading Bobby Blanken in becoming a part of this Cougar family! His hard work ethic, knowledge of the game, and love for Christ will reflect on the court and in his player's lives. It is an exciting time for CCU Volleyball!"