Temple University Athletics
McCullough Joins Volleyball Staff in 2024
8.21.24 | Women's Volleyball
Returning to Temple as a graduate assistant coach is a significant milestone for Halle McCullough, a familiar name for many Temple volleyball fans. McCullough, who was a middle blocker and right-side hitter for the Owls from 2013 to 2015, is excited to contribute to the program in a new capacity under Head Coach Linda Hampton-Keith.
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After graduating from Temple in 2016, McCullough spent two years teaching in North Philadelphia before moving to China to teach English. She returned to the U.S. in the summer of 2023, where she taught and coached in Phoenix before coming back to Philadelphia in July. Her return to Temple has been filled with nostalgia and enthusiasm.
"It's very overwhelming in the best way!" McCullough shared. "It's great to be back in the place that had such an influence on my life. The best friendships I've been blessed with were built in McGonigle and this campus. I've laughed, cried, failed, celebrated, and grown into the woman I am because of this university. I have met the most amazing people who helped me succeed—teammates, coaches, other Temple athletes, and the Resnick and compliance staff. They all played a part in making sure my goals were met. I'm thrilled to be back on campus and with the program, and to be able to pay it forward to the current players."
During her time with Temple, McCullough appeared in 39 matches, amassing 197 kills and 94 total blocks. She has observed how the game has evolved since her playing days, noting the changes in the American Athletic Conference and the development of payers and various positions.
"The game and all positions have evolved so much over the years," McCullough remarked. "When I played, it was the first year of the AAC, and there was no conference tournament. It's exciting to see how the sport has grown and changed."
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, McCullough is optimistic about the team's potential. "Our team looks great, and I'm confident we can do very well!" she said. "I want the girls to work hard and together to achieve their goals while remembering why they fell in love with volleyball. I hope they remain coachable, open to trying new things, and supportive of one another."
McCullough's return to Temple not only brings a wealth of experience but also a deep appreciation for the program and its impact on her life. Her goal is to help the current players succeed and thrive, just as she did during her time as an Owl.
TU starts the regular season with Cherry and White Challenge on Friday, Aug. 30 with a pair of matches starting at 12 p.m. versus Rider and then Radford at 3:30 p.m. The Owls will play on one game on Saturday, Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. to wrap up the tournament. One day later, No. 7 Penn State will visit McGonigle Hall at 1:30 p.m. to wrap up Labor Day Weekend.
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After graduating from Temple in 2016, McCullough spent two years teaching in North Philadelphia before moving to China to teach English. She returned to the U.S. in the summer of 2023, where she taught and coached in Phoenix before coming back to Philadelphia in July. Her return to Temple has been filled with nostalgia and enthusiasm.
"It's very overwhelming in the best way!" McCullough shared. "It's great to be back in the place that had such an influence on my life. The best friendships I've been blessed with were built in McGonigle and this campus. I've laughed, cried, failed, celebrated, and grown into the woman I am because of this university. I have met the most amazing people who helped me succeed—teammates, coaches, other Temple athletes, and the Resnick and compliance staff. They all played a part in making sure my goals were met. I'm thrilled to be back on campus and with the program, and to be able to pay it forward to the current players."
During her time with Temple, McCullough appeared in 39 matches, amassing 197 kills and 94 total blocks. She has observed how the game has evolved since her playing days, noting the changes in the American Athletic Conference and the development of payers and various positions.
"The game and all positions have evolved so much over the years," McCullough remarked. "When I played, it was the first year of the AAC, and there was no conference tournament. It's exciting to see how the sport has grown and changed."
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, McCullough is optimistic about the team's potential. "Our team looks great, and I'm confident we can do very well!" she said. "I want the girls to work hard and together to achieve their goals while remembering why they fell in love with volleyball. I hope they remain coachable, open to trying new things, and supportive of one another."
McCullough's return to Temple not only brings a wealth of experience but also a deep appreciation for the program and its impact on her life. Her goal is to help the current players succeed and thrive, just as she did during her time as an Owl.
TU starts the regular season with Cherry and White Challenge on Friday, Aug. 30 with a pair of matches starting at 12 p.m. versus Rider and then Radford at 3:30 p.m. The Owls will play on one game on Saturday, Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. to wrap up the tournament. One day later, No. 7 Penn State will visit McGonigle Hall at 1:30 p.m. to wrap up Labor Day Weekend.
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