Shaler boys volleyball adopts simple approach for playoffs

By: Josh Rizzo
Thursday, May 9, 2019 | 7:14 PM

Six-foot middle blocker Steve Hoffman fits right in with the Shaler volleyball team.

He’s undersized and has a persistent, defensive style of play.

The Titans long have established their intent to wear down bigger teams with their tempo.

“I don’t know if we are patient,” Hoffman said. “We keep moving quick all the time. Even if we don’t, we move onto the next play and keep our pins up.”

After a 3-0 sweep of Penn-Trafford last Monday, the Titans have proven their mettle against the WPIAL’s traditional powers. Shaler’s (12-3, 9-2) only losses are to defending PIAA champion North Allegheny (twice) and to nonsection foe Bethel Park.

The Titans were in second place in the section and looking to reach double figures for section wins last Thursday against North Hills. That match was played after deadline for this edition.

“We need to maintain our ability with our serve-and-receive prowess and being a scrappy, difficult team to play against,” Shaler coach Paul Stadelman said.

Hoffman, who plays outside hitter in club, was asked to move to middle blocker for high school. It has allowed him to showcase his versatility.

“He helps set up our defense with a good block,” Stadelman said. “He has a good jump serve. He is an unselfish, energetic payer on the court.”

In Shaler’s rematch with North Allegheny, which has won 37 straight and swept the Titans, 3-0, in their first meeting, Hoffman’s serve helped keep the Tigers guessing.

Hoffman landed four aces to go with 10 kills as Shaler fell 3-2. North Allegheny survived by taking the fifth set 17-15.

Billy Dadowski led Shaler with 16 kills, and John Kenst provided 11. Trapper Crain, Grant Newland and Dadowski tied for a team-high 14 digs.

“I think we were more fluid last week than when we played them the first time,” Stadelman said. “I think we played our game and worked hard, were defensive and played a good match against them.”

Hoffman and Shaler will be heading to the WPIAL playoffs for the third straight season.

The team’s approach is simple: Keep the pace up and wear the big boys down.

“We’re defensive and scrappy,” Hoffman said. “We want to keep working hard. We want to continue to improve on our weaknesses and maintain our strengths.”

Tags: Shaler