Michael Brinkley was a three-time first team All-American and three-time All-MPSF honoree.
He ended his career with 1,099 digs which is second most in a career at UCI and fourth most by a MPSF player all-time. He had a career-best 25 digs vs Long Beach State (4/3/15), which is eighth best in the MPSF record book, while his 330 digs in 2015 is eighth best in MPSF season.
The libero was member of UCI’s national championship teams in 2012 and 2013, earning NCAA All-Tournament honors in 2013.
COACH KNIFFIN SAID:
“From my perspective, Brinkley started coaching collegiately in Fall of 2012 (when he was still a sophomore and I was a young head coach). He saw the game so much better than I did. He set the tone in serve receive. He valued the relationship between block and backcourt defense. And he was meticulous about his craft. It is an honor to announce that one of our [NCAA] Champions has returned. He will make us better. He always has.”
5 Questions for Michael Brinkley:
Q: What is your primary vocation? What do you do when you’re not coaching volleyball?
A: Outside of coaching volleyball, my time is spent working in residential real estate and design. Currently residing my license with Compass Real Estate in Newport Beach, I work as a real estate agent on one of the top producing teams in California. Another venture I pursue is interior design and development with my brother. We are working on design projects here in Orange County and in LA as well as flipping and building spec homes for private clients and developers.
Q: What volleyball memory, before UC Irvine, brings you joy?
A: At 15 years old, I started playing for Balboa Bay Volleyball Club. Throughout the season our team always finished in the top 4 but never won. When we got to the final tournament at the Junior Olympics, we took home the gold medal at the Boys Junior Olympics.
Q: What is one essential quality in a coach you respect?
A: Whether on the court or off the court being a positive influence for someone to learn and grow from. The best coaches are constantly learning how best to provide a meaningful space for players to develop physically and mentally.
Q: If you could give your 18-22 year old (collegiate) self some advice, what would it be?
A: Enjoy every minute of these years. Try new interests and build more friendships and relationships.
Q: What is one thing, unrelated to volleyball, that you love about UC Irvine?
A: UCI has always had a great community of genuine people who truly care for you and support you and for that I could not be more thankful.
