A new chapter begins for the University of Hawaii's beach volleyball program as acting athletic director Lois Manin announced a shift in leadership. Evan Silberstein, who has been an integral part of the program for 11 of its 14 seasons, will no longer serve as head coach. Despite guiding the Rainbow Wahine to the NCAA Tournament during his initial three years, the team recently experienced their first losing season since beach volleyball became a fully sanctioned NCAA sport in 2016.

The decision marks a significant transition under Manin’s leadership. Since taking over in December, she has extended contracts with football coach Timmy Chang and women's indoor volleyball coach Robyn Ah Mow while expressing confidence in men's basketball coach Eran Ganot. The competitive landscape of collegiate beach volleyball has evolved dramatically, with major programs investing heavily in facilities and staffing, which Silberstein noted poses challenges for UH. As Nick Castello steps in as interim head coach, the university looks ahead to finding a suitable replacement who can navigate this increasingly competitive environment.

Innovative strategies are essential for Hawaii to remain competitive in college beach volleyball. Silberstein emphasized the importance of establishing beach volleyball as an official high school sport within the state. By fostering local talent from a younger age, Hawaii could leverage its unique geographical advantages to develop skilled players. Although Silberstein expressed gratitude for his time at UH, he acknowledged that maintaining competitiveness against powerhouses like Texas, Arizona, Florida, and California requires substantial changes. With dedication and innovation, the future of Hawaii's beach volleyball program holds promise for renewed success and growth.