Arkansas Razorbacks Star Alumnae Hannah Hogue, Courtney Jackson Join Coaching Staff & Stage a Super Homecoming 🎉
The University of Arkansas volleyball program is welcoming two of its most accomplished former players back into the fold. In a heartwarming homecoming, Hannah Hogue and Courtney Jackson—both alumni who defined the Razorbacks’ rise—have joined Jason Watson’s coaching staff ahead of the 2025 season
A Full‑Circle Return for Homecoming Heroes
Arkansas fans are already anticipating the fall season with renewed excitement. Not only is it a return of familiar faces, but the appointments of Hogue and Jackson also reinforce a culture deeply rooted in Razorback tradition and excellence.
Jason Watson, entering his ninth year as head coach, expressed his enthusiasm:
“Hannah and Courtney are two wonderfully talented athletes who helped our program reach new heights, now in a position to teach and guide our current athletes to equal success. I’m thrilled that their experiences here at Arkansas have inspired them to remain and continue to give to our best
Hannah Hogue: From On-Court General to Assistant Coach
Hailed as one of Arkansas volleyball’s most exceptional setters, Hogue compiled an astonishing 3,056 career assists—ranking sixth all-time in program history. During her junior season in 2023, she averaged 11.13 assists per set (third in the SEC, sixth nationally), leading Arkansas to its inaugural Elite Eight appearance. That year, she earned All-America honorable mention, AVCA All-South Region honors, and was a first-team All-SEC selection
Not just a distributor, Hogue’s all-around impact was evident: her tally of 1,031 career digs (adding a defensive dimension to her offensive dominance), 44 career double-doubles (seventh-most ever), and service prowess with 108 career aces—51 of which came in the 2023 season alone Her return as an assistant coach not only bridges on-court excellence but also strategic leadership and experience.
Courtney Jackson: The Defensive Dynamo Turned Graduate Assistant
Joining Hogue is another homegrown defensive star, Courtney Jackson, stepping into the graduate assistant coach role. Jackson’s resume is impressive: a four-year starter, 111 consecutive starts beginning freshman year, and SEC All-Freshman honors after leading freshmen—and ranking ninth in all players—in digs per set (3.48)
The 2023 season saw Jackson rack up 511 digs (fifth-highest single-season total in program history), finishing second in the SEC in both total digs and digs per set (4.02) She capped off her collegiate career in 2024 with a staggering 4.49 digs per set average, 25 double-digit dig matches, and program record-setting 40 digs in a single match against Tulsa—marking the highest single-game dig total since 2006 Her 1,738 career digs place her third on the all-time Razorback list, and she earned SEC Player of the Week twice, along with AVCA All-SEC and All-Central Region honorable mentions in 2024
Legacy, Leadership & Culture
The addition of Hogue and Jackson continues a strong trend under Coach Watson of fostering a staff rooted in Razorback legacy. Arkansas alumna Jill Gillen, notable All-American and former assistant, remains on staff alongside rising stars like Macey Donathan, now head coach at Air Force. This strategy not only retains institutional knowledge but ensures continuity in culture, work ethic, and the Razorback identity.
A Supper Homecoming to Kick Off the Season
To mark this heartfelt reunion, the Arkansas volleyball program hosted a “supper homecoming”—a celebratory event welcoming both alumnae back to Fayetteville. Players, staff, and fans gathered under Barnhill Arena’s lights for a dinner featuring Razorback-themed décor, alumni speeches, and shared reflections on past seasons. The event wasn’t just ceremonial—it symbolized unity, passing of the torch, and collective momentum as Arkansas chases new heights in 2025.
Looking Ahead: Season Preview
With Hogue and Jackson now in formal roles on the bench, Arkansas is poised to channel their court wisdom and leadership into the upcoming season. The Razorbacks will open their campaign at the Shocker Volleyball Classic in Wichita, Kansas, facing Kennesaw State on Saturday, August 30 Arkansas Razorbacks. Their goal is clear: build on the Elite Eight breakthrough, sustain competitive SEC presence, and deepen NCAA Tournament runs.
Final Thoughts
The returns of Hannah Hogue and Courtney Jackson are more than just staff additions—they’re chapters in an evolving legacy. Their journeys, from college stars to mentors, deepen the Razorback culture: excellence, tradition, and unwavering support.
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