FULLERTON – Hope International Athletics today announced the addition of men's beach volleyball as its newest varsity sport, expanding opportunities for student-athletes and strengthening the program's athletic profile.

Men's beach volleyball becomes the 24th sport at HIU.

Competition begins in the 2026-27 academic year under head coach Adam Cutrell, who also oversees the women's beach volleyball program. Recruiting efforts are already underway to build a competitive inaugural roster.

"I am absolutely pumped for the launch of Men's Beach Volleyball at Hope International right here in Volleyball Mecca – Southern California," said Cutrell. "The addition of Men's Beach Volleyball creates an incredible opportunity for HIU, our athletics department, and the sport as a whole. I'm honored to step in as head coach and excited to build a program rooted in HIU's mission, vision and values – developing young men who lead with character, serve with purpose, and compete with a mindset that reflects who we are as a university. This addition provides male student-athletes a powerful pathway to pursue their academic and athletic goals while being shaped into leaders who make an impact on and off the sand. We're ready and committed to build something special, and I couldn't be more fired up for the future of Royals Beach Volleyball."

The program will compete in the NAIA, joining a rapidly growing national landscape for collegiate men's beach volleyball. Training and home competitions will be held at local beach facilities in partnership with community venues to provide high-quality practice and match environments.

"The addition of men's beach volleyball is another important step forward for Hope International University Athletics," said Director of Athletics Chris Morrison. "This sport aligns perfectly with our mission to expand meaningful opportunities for student-athletes while continuing to grow strategically as a department. With Southern California being a hotbed for beach volleyball and Coach Cutrell's leadership in place, we're excited about the competitive future of this program and the impact it will have on our campus and community."

The addition of men's beach volleyball supports HIU's strategic vision of broadening athletic opportunities, increasing enrollment, and enhancing campus engagement. The move also points to continued momentum after recent program expansions and facility enhancements, showcasing consistent investment in Royals Athletics.

Men's beach volleyball also aligns with Southern California's strong volleyball culture, creating new pathways for regional recruits and student-athletes.

Additional details, including schedule announcements and roster updates, will be shared throughout the spring and summer as the program prepares for its historic first season.