OSHAWA, Ont. – The Ontario Tech Ridgebacks have named Matt Harris as the inaugural head coach of the Ridgebacks men's volleyball program, marking a significant milestone as the university prepares to launch U SPORTS men's and women's volleyball competition in 2027.

"As the inaugural coach, I see this as an opportunity to build a program that reflects the university's commitment to innovation and student success," said Harris. "I will work with the staff to create an environment where student-athletes are challenged to reach their full potential academically, athletically and personally."

Harris brings three decades of coaching experience to Durham Region, with an extensive résumé spanning high school, club, provincial, national and university volleyball. His coaching career includes 11 seasons in the OUA, including five as a head coach, along with 25 years leading Ontario Volleyball Association club programs and 16 years as a high school head coach in Ottawa. He has also spent 15 years with Team Ontario, helping guide the program to two Canada Games medals, including gold as head coach in 2017 and bronze as an assistant coach in 2025, while serving in multiple coaching roles with Team Canada.

Director of Athletics Audra Sherman said Harris' experience and leadership made him the ideal person to build the program from day one.

"Launching a new varsity program requires a leader with experience, vision and a passion for developing student-athletes, and we found all of those qualities in Matt," said Sherman. "His success at every level of the game, combined with his commitment to building a strong culture, makes him the perfect person to establish the foundation for Ridgebacks men's volleyball. We're excited to welcome him to Ontario Tech and begin this journey together."

Harris will lead the Ridgebacks as they begin building the program, with recruiting set to begin ahead of Ontario Tech's inaugural U SPORTS men's volleyball season.

"I hope to bring the experience, structure and passion needed to establish a program that is competitive, sustainable and respected within U SPORTS," said Harris. "My goal is to create an environment where student-athletes can excel on the court, grow as individuals and take pride in helping to build something meaningful from the ground up."

For Harris, the opportunity extends beyond building a competitive team. He also sees the program as a chance to strengthen the connection between Ontario Tech and the surrounding volleyball community.

"What excites me most is the opportunity to share volleyball with the Ontario Tech community, as well as the Oshawa and Durham community at large," said Harris. "Volleyball has deep roots in the Durham area, so the arrival of U SPORTS volleyball at Ontario Tech has the potential to connect the school and the community in new and exciting ways."