An Eagle Has Landed as SMCHS Boys' Volleyball Coach

Justin DeBlasio, who 15 years ago was playing volleyball at Santa Margarita Catholic, has been named the school's boys' volleyball coach.

DeBlasio, a 1997 graduate who led the Eagles to one of their three Southern Section titles during his senior season, will now try to do the same thing from the sidelines.

“I am a product of Santa Margarita, and now I get to be on the other side of things, helping train young athletes into great players and, more importantly, great people,” DeBlasio said. “I take pride in being an influence in these athletes’ lives.”

DeBlasio has continued to be involved in volleyball, serving as president and director of the 949 Volleyball Club in San Clemente since 2009, and coaching at San Juan Hills last year, where he guided the Stallions to second place in the Sea View League and the second round of the playoffs. It was a considerable step up, winning 19 matches for a program that won only a handful the year before.

Prior to coaching at San Juan Hills, DeBlasio was head coach of the Riptides Volleyball Club in Anaheim.

DeBlasio was the Sea View League most valuable player as a junior and a county all-star as a senior. After being named a starter at University of Pacific as a freshman, he transferred to Arizona.

The Eagles have won nine league championships and three section titles in their 25 years.

“Santa Margarita has a rich tradition of success and has sent many athletes on to play at the Division 1 level,” he said. “I want to continue to bring a sense of pride to the program.”

Athletic director Richard Schaaf said he's excited to have DeBlasio back on campus. "His experience and knowledge of the sport will be a great asset to the program," he said.

DeBlasio replaces Bryan Cottriel, who recently stepped down from his position as head coach of both the boys’ and girls’ volleyball teams. The boys' team reached the section finals in 2011.