Mary Wise is one of the most accomplished and influential coaches in the history of collegiate volleyball. Over 34 seasons as the head coach of the University of Florida volleyball program, Wise built the Gators into a nationally recognized powerhouse while establishing herself as a trailblazer for women in coaching and leadership.

Wise finished her coaching career with 1,068 victories, the most all-time among female head coaches in NCAA Division I women’s volleyball. Under her leadership, Florida captured 25 Southeastern Conference championships, advanced to eight NCAA Final Fours, appeared in two national championship matches, and earned 34 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. She was named SEC Coach of the Year 15 times and AVCA National Coach of the Year three times.

Wise began breaking barriers early in her career. At just 21 years old, she became the youngest person ever hired as an NCAA Division I head coach when she took over the program at Iowa State. Throughout her career, she became known not only for sustained competitive excellence, but also for developing student-athletes, advancing opportunities for women in sports, and helping grow the game of volleyball.

After retiring from coaching, Wise began a new chapter as a college volleyball analyst for ESPN, bringing more than four decades of experience in leadership, team building, preparation, and high performance to audiences across the country.

Through her commitment to excellence, willingness to challenge convention, and ability to develop people and teams over decades, Wise exemplifies what it means to BE A FORCE.