Dave Shoji, born on April 12, 1946, in California, is a legendary volleyball coach known for his successful career at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. With a coaching career that spans over four decades, Shoji is considered one of the most accomplished coaches in the history of women's volleyball.
Before becoming a successful coach, Shoji was a standout player himself. He was a two-time All-American volleyball player at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he honed his skills and developed a deep passion for the sport.
In 1975, Shoji took on the role of head coach at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, a position he would hold for over 40 years. Under his leadership, the team achieved unprecedented success, winning national titles in 1979, 1982, 1983, and 1987. Shoji's coaching style, dedication, and ability to motivate his players are widely recognized as key factors in the team's success.
In September 2013, Dave Shoji made history by becoming the winningest coach in the history of Division I Women's Volleyball with an impressive 1,107 wins. His coaching philosophy of hard work, discipline, and teamwork has inspired countless players and fans alike.
One of Shoji's proudest moments was when his son, Kawika, followed in his footsteps and excelled as a volleyball player at Stanford University. Kawika's success on the court earned him the title of AVCA Player of the Year for 2010, a testament to the Shoji family's deep-rooted passion for the sport.
Over the years, Dave Shoji has mentored numerous talented players, including NCAA National Player of the Year Kim Willoughby in 2003. His ability to identify and develop top-tier talent has solidified his reputation as a coaching legend in the world of volleyball.
Throughout his career, Shoji's commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to his players have earned him widespread respect and admiration. His impact on the sport of volleyball is immeasurable, and his legacy as a coach and mentor will continue to inspire future generations of athletes for years to come.