Wisconsin head coach Kelly Sheffield is shown during volleyball practice Mark Hoffman / USA TODAY NETWORK

Former Purdue Assistant Coach Joins Wisconsin's Volleyball Staff

Originally posted on Purdue Boilermakers on SI
By Dustin Schutte | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 5:16 PM ET

John Shondell, a former Purdue assistant coach and the brother of Boilermakers head coach Dave Shondell, has landed a job on Kelly Sheffield's staff at Wisconsin. The Badgers released a statement on Wednesday regarding changes to the staff for the 2025 season.

Wisconsin announced the promotion of Lauren Carlini to full-time assistant coach, as well as associate head coach Gary White being promoted to director of player personnel and analytics. John is the only new addition to the staff of the three.

"John brings an enormous amount of coaching knowledge and experience, and I'm thrilled about adding him to the Wisconsin staff," said Sheffield in a statement. "His passion for the game, commitment to the student-athlete and teaching ability are second to none."

John worked at Purdue under his brother, Dave, for 19 seasons. He helped guide the Boilermakers to 13 NCAA Tournament appearances, including seven trips to the Sweet 16, during his time in West Lafayette.

Last year, John worked as an assistant coach for the Indy Ignite, the PVF's Indianapolis franchise. He also was the head coach at New Castle High School (Ind.) for nine years.

Wisconsin is coming off a 26-7 campaign in 2024, which included a 17-3 mark in Big Ten play. The Badgers lost to Nebraska in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA Tournament.

Purdue and Wisconsin are scheduled to play just once during the 2025 season, a Nov. 20 showdown at the University of Wisconsin Field House.

This article first appeared on Purdue Boilermakers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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