Norwin boys volleyball looks to build on playoff season

By: Bill Beckner Jr.
Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 11:01 AM

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After winning a section title and earning a first-round bye in the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs last year, the Norwin boys volleyball team is looking to carry over the momentum.

“While we have a strong foundation, it is crucial that we focus on strengthening our backcourt and enhancing our passing game,” coach Mike Palaschak said. “Improving these areas will provide greater stability and fluidity, ensuring a more balanced overall performance and allowing us to better execute both offensive and defensive strategies.”

Fourth-seeded Norwin lost to No. 5 Seneca Valley in last year’s quarterfinals, 3-1.

Four seniors will line up to lead the way. They are outside hitter Nick Ames, middle blocker Nick Puskaric, right-side hitter and middle blocker Dane Thompson and libero Nate Wilson.

“We have outstanding leadership,” Palaschak said. “And the team is highly capable of executing a strong offensive strategy.”

Key newcomers looking to have an impact include sophomore setter Owen Fonzi, senior middle blocker John Olshanski, sophomore outside hitter Christian Reiter and senior outside hitter Charles Tygielski.

Palaschak likes the defensive makeup of his group.

“The blocking aspect of the game is an area where we are poised to excel,” Palaschak said, “leveraging our strength and positioning to effectively disrupt the opposition’s plays and create defensive opportunities.”

The offense will need to complement the backliners for the Knights to sustain success.

“Enhancing our passing will improve ball control and overall offensive efficiency,” Palaschak said, “while reinforcing our backcourt defense will provide greater protection against opposing attacks and ensure better transitions between defense and offense.”

Bill Beckner Jr. is a TribLive reporter covering local sports in Westmoreland County. He can be reached at bbeckner@triblive.com.

Tags: Norwin