WILKES-BARRE – Wilkes University Athletic Director Scott Musa has announced that current assistant coach Zach Shay '24 has been promoted to be the next head coach of both the men's and women's volleyball program.

"Zach was outstanding in his interview and very much impressed the committee with his vision for the future of our two volleyball programs," Musa said. "He is going to be outstanding for us, and I look forward to working with him as we realize our goal of building nationally competitive programs."

Shay becomes the eleventh women's volleyball coach in program history and the second on the men's side after the retirement of Joseph Czopek in early May. He will lead the men's program into their first year in the Landmark Conference, which will begin sponsoring volleyball in 2027.

The Bethlehem, Pa. native has been an assistant coach for his alma mater since graduating in 2024, where he played for five years on the men's volleyball team. During his illustrious career as a Colonel, Shay set program records in single season and career assists (2,442), as well as assists per set (7.68). Across 95 total matches played, the four-year captain finished his career with 510 digs, 158 kills, 91 total blocks, and 268.5 total points.

"I am incredibly grateful to be named head coach at my alma mater," Shay said. "Thank you to Coach Czopek for mentoring me over the past seven years and thank you to Scott Musa and the hiring committee for the opportunity to serve men's and women's volleyball. I am excited to continue leading the women's program in the Landmark Conference and to begin the men's journey into the Landmark."

"My goal is to continue building a culture centered around hard work, accountability, competitiveness, and pride in representing Wilkes University. I am excited to help our student-athletes grow not only as volleyball players, but also as leaders, students, and people. I cannot wait to get to work with our current student athletes, connect with alumni, and continue growing the sport of volleyball within the Wilkes community."