(Information courtesy of Pennridge boys’ volleyball. Photo by Jon Sklut.)
Dave Childs has quietly and without fanfare had an unparalleled level of success since taking over the helm of the Pennridge boys’ volleyball team and this season surpassed the 300-win milestone. This is Childs’ 20th year at the helm, and he has accumulated that total in just over 18 seasons (there was no 2020 season due to the COVID 19 pandemic). His cumulative record when he reached 300 wins was 300-85 (.779).
Childs’ resume is a dazzling one and includes:
--A 75-game regular season win streak (2008-2013)
--9 Suburban One League titles
--6 District 1 3A titles
--Final 4 in District 1 in each of the last 15 seasons.
--Played in 11 of the previous 15 District 1 Finals
--Qualified for state playoffs in 13 of the last 15 seasons
--Finished in the final 4 in the state four times (2010, 2012, 2016, 2022)
--Lost in 2012 state final (2-3) to Chambersburg
Childs is reluctant to talk about his accomplishments, but when he does, he is quick to deflect the credit.
“None of this happens without a great staff,” the Rams’ coach said. “I've had great JV coaches throughout the years. Brad Nase, Eric Kehs, Zech States, Mark Ulmer, Ryan Coyle and Andrew Landis each had major influence on the program.
“Austin Rush was our libero in 2016 and has been our JV coach for four seasons. This year we brought David Stastny on staff as well. Dave, a former Souderton head coach, has been helping to develop players in the area through offseason club volleyball since I've been involved in the game.
“Ian Kehs has been part of the Pennridge program as either a player or a coach for 12 seasons. Ian, a 2013 Pennridge grad, was an important part of our state final run in 2012, stepping into the starting lineup in the state quarters in must-win situation and helping us advance. He went on to play at Messiah and then returned to coach at Pennridge. Ian was the JV coach for a short time before moving to a volunteer position on our staff. For the last handful of years, he is basically a second head coach. The amount of time and effort he puts into the program voluntarily is invaluable
“Ian, along with the other assistants I have had, deserve a lot of the credit for the success of the program.”
They said:
Nick Smith, Pennridge Class of ’22: “Whether on or off the court, Coach Dave was always about discipline, teamwork, and showing effort for everything and anything. Dave has shaped the Pennridge program into the winning culture it is today and stays with his players long after they graduate. I’m proud to have played for Dave’s program and to see his dedication pay off through his success”
Pennridge athletic director Scott Hegen: “Dave is one of the most competitive people that I have ever met, but by his sideline demeanor you would never know. Coach Childs has an uncanny ability to seemingly be calm during each match and maintain the focus with sharp precision for the expectations of the team.
“For the past 20 years, Coach Childs has been one of the most successful coaches in PA, while leading our team to the state championship tournament in many of these years, especially in the 15 years that I have been at Pennridge. Yes, we have had some very talented players, but the way that he develops the whole team is quite amazing. To have a run that has lasted so many years you just know the skills of his coaching abilities and developing a strong coaching staff to support the program.
“We are Pennridge Proud in the manner in which he leads his team let alone the success of the program.”
Dan Shollenberger, Rams’ Men’s Volleyball Booster Club: “I knew Coach Dave had a successful run at Pennridge, but I didn’t realize the level of success—or how long he’s been doing it. Three hundred wins is a huge accomplishment, and we’re proud to witness him reach that milestone. Coach Dave’s influence on the program goes far beyond wins and losses. Under his guidance, we watch the boys grow from eager freshmen to skilled, confident players at the varsity level. His mentorship has shaped not just volleyball players, but young men with discipline and determination. As the team pushes further into the season, the legacy of Coach Dave’s 300 wins serves as inspiration for both players and Pennridge High School. Congratulations Dave on reaching 300 match wins!”
- Log in to post comments
