SAN DIEGO—After 19 seasons, San Diego associate head coach Brent Hilliard is leaving his position with the USD volleyball program to take a head coaching position at San Diego State.
 
Hilliard helped head coach Jennifer Petrie elevate USD to national prominence, guiding the Toreros to the NCAA Tournament in 18 of his 19 seasons. During that time, San Diego claimed nine WCC Championships, with 20 players earning All-America honors.
 
"Words cannot express my deep gratitude for Brent's unwavering dedication and commitment to our program," said Petrie. "I say 'our' program, because for 20 years that is exactly what it was. Our Program. It is with complete sincerity that I wish Brent success, new and even greater heights and a positive and enjoyable work experience. I can only be thankful for the longevity and the time that we worked alongside each other."
 
Hilliard was promoted to Associate Head Coach after serving as USD's interim head coach for the 2006 season, while Petrie took a season off to spend time with her family. During the 2006 campaign, he led the Toreros to a WCC Championship, a Sweet 16 appearance and was named WCC Coach of the Year.
 
In 2011, Hilliard once again assumed the reigns of the volleyball program as Petrie took the season off to spend time with her new born daughter Caroline. The Toreros finished 28-5, making it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.