SEATTLE (June 27) ­ Chris Johnson, who served as the top assistant this past season, has been named Seattle Pacific University's new head coach of women's volleyball, athletic director Tom Box announced Monday.

Johnson succeeds Kellie Ryan, who resigned in April after five seasons. He becomes the third coach in the SPU program's 19-year existence and begins his duties immediately.

This is the first head coaching position for Johnson after four seasons as an assistant, including three at Westmont, an NAIA national power, from 2001-03. He served under Jim Smoot at the Santa Barbara school. The Warriors reached the national tournament in '01 and '02.

Johnson was Ryan's top aide last season and was in charge of defense and passing strategies and technique, as well as recruiting. Following Ryan's departure, he guided the Falcons through the balance of the spring season.

"We aggressively searched the nation and found in Chris Johnson a very compelling candidate right under our own noses," said Box. "Chris will move the program forward. He brings fresh ideas and approaches, and we feel he's deserving of this opportunity."

A native of Bellevue and graduate of Interlake High School, Johnson earned his bachelor's degree in art from Westmont in 2002. He played a total of five years at the collegiate club level, including three at Westmont.

"I couldn't ask for a better situation," said Johnson. "To be coaching at a such a wonderful and highly prestigious Christian university in my hometown is simply ideal. I'm excited this coming season, and I'm confident believe that our team will continue to improve and advance the program."

Johnson inherits a Seattle Pacific team which was 15-11 and fourth in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference last fall. The Falcons will return four starters, including all-conference middle Katie Ralph and setter Jenna Von Moos.

SPU opens its season Aug. 26-27 at the Ferris State Invitational in Big Rapids, Mich.