Sheridan Bruins Look Ahead
The Sheridan College Athletic Department is pleased to announce that Dave McAllister has been named the new head coach of the Men’s Volleyball Team. McAllister is a Physical Education Teacher at Rick Hansen S.S. in Mississauga, a powerhouse in high school boys’ volleyball. The Rick Hansen Storm has been a constant presence at OFSAA under McAllister’s leadership, and has won a number of Region of Peel Championships. As well, Dave has been an Assistant Coach with McMaster University Marauders for the past six seasons, helping the Marauders win two OUA Championships.
“Dave brings an incredible wealth of knowledge and success to our program, and I am anticipating some post-season achievement to follow,” said Sheridan Athletic Director Jim Flack. “It’s obvious that Mac’s experience at Rick Hansen and McMaster University should have an immediate impact on the program, and I anticipate that he will bring the formula to the Bruins.”
As excited as the Sheridan athletic department is to have him on board, McAllister is equally thrilled about the opportunity.
“Jim and I have discussed some ideas around taking the program to the next level, and I think we have a common passion for watching student-athletes succeed in the classroom and on the court,” he said. McAllister has also added two assistant coaches to his staff.
Mike Russell, an experienced and successful coach who has been a builder of volleyball programs throughout the Region of Peel for 25 years, joins Sheridan for the second time. He has coached a number of OFSSA medalists, and most recently was an assistant at McMaster, along with McAllister.
Sean Panchal, a Mississauga resident, was a former Athlete of the Year at Rick Hansen Secondary School and became the starting setter for the McMaster Marauders. He had an outstanding OUA career, leading the Marauders to an undefeated campaign in 2007-2008.
All three coaches have been involved with the OVA for many years as coaches and/or players. McAllister and Russell started coaching with the Westside Volleyball club and eventually started the SVC club in Mississauga. Panchal played for Westside, Falcons and MAC as well as participating in the Ontario Summer Games for Region 5.
Mcallister commented, “The addition of Mike and Sean will create the coaching team that I envisioned when Jim Flack and I met to discuss where we want the program to go. It’s clear that in this day and age, you can’t compete at the OCAA level without a knowledgeable and motivated staff, and these two guys exceed all expectations in those regards.” Sheridan has a great tradition of success and class, and I want our volleyball team to return to the years of glory.”
submitted by Mike Russell
