UH's Shoji honored by USA Volleyball

Advertiser Staff

University of Hawai'i Rainbow Wahine volleyball coach Dave Shoji has been named the 2002 All-Time Great Coach honoree by USA Volleyball.

Shoji is just the 11th coach to receive the Donald S. Shondell Contemporary Division Award in its eight-year history.

Shoji, who has won 84 percent of his matches (770-145) — second in the NCAA — will receive the award prior to the start of the Rainbow Wahine's Aug. 30 match with Ohio State at the Stan Sheriff Center.

"I'm very honored and flattered that they chose to give me this award," Shoji said yesterday. "When they told me, I was very flattered to be included in the group of coaches who have received it."

"I think it is wonderful that they have recognized Dave's success and longevity over 27 years," said Marilyn Moniz-Kaho'ohanohano, UH assistant athletic director and senior women's administrator. "It reaffirms how far he has brought the program to one of the top women's volleyball teams in the country."

In Shoji's tenure, UH has won four national championships — 1979, '82, '83 and '87 — and had two runner-up finishes (1988 and '96).

Under Shoji, UH posted 23 20-win seasons, including 13 of 30 victories or more.

The Rainbow Wahine have finished in the Top 10 in 17 of 20 years. All but one of his teams have advanced to postseason play.