The University of Valley Forge has officially named Taylor Dafoe as the head coach of its men’s volleyball program. This appointment expands Dafoe’s current responsibilities at the university, where he already serves as the head coach for the women’s volleyball team. By overseeing both programs, Dafoe will bring a unified leadership style to the university’s volleyball department.
A Proven Track Record in Coaching
Dafoe enters this expanded role with over seven years of coaching experience. His background includes a successful tenure as the Head Varsity Volleyball Coach at Salem Christian School, where he led the team to significant victories and a pursuit of the program’s first state tournament appearance.
His experience at the collegiate level began at Maranatha Baptist University. During his time there, he served as the Assistant Women’s Volleyball Coach for the NCAA DIII and NCCAA DII program. His duties included managing game strategies, conducting practice drills, and analyzing in-game statistics to support student-athlete development.
Leadership Beyond the Court
In addition to his coaching roles, Dafoe has held significant leadership positions within the broader sports community. Since 2023, he has served as the Club Volleyball Director and Marketing Director at Push the Rock in Emmaus, Pennsylvania. In this capacity, he manages club operations and team development. Between 2017 and 2024, he also directed various summer sports camps focusing on basketball, soccer, and volleyball.
Academic and Athletic Excellence
Dafoe’s transition into leadership is supported by his own history as a high-performing athlete. He previously played professional soccer in Europe, an experience that informs his understanding of elite competition. His volleyball accolades include:
- Statistical Awards for Best Seasonal Performance: Received in 2019, 2020, and 2021.
- Scholar Athlete Award: Earned in 2021 for maintaining one of the highest GPAs among student-athletes.
Dafoe holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management with a minor in Digital Media Communications from Maranatha Baptist University.
Looking Toward the Future
Director of Athletics Gretchen LeVan noted that Dafoe’s combination of playing experience and communication skills makes him a strong fit for the program. The university aims to use his expertise to build a positive team culture and develop young talent from the ground up.
The men’s volleyball program will begin its journey under Dafoe’s leadership next week.
Mariano Opens New Door
Kyle Mariano stepped down as the head men’s volleyball coach at the University of Valley Forge to accept a new position as the Head Boys’ Volleyball Coach and Physical Education Teacher at Timothy Christian School in New Jersey. As the inaugural head coach who launched the program in 2021, Mariano built the team into a competitive member of the United East and NCAA Division III landscape. His tenure was highlighted by consecutive winning seasons and the program’s first-ever playoff appearance in 2025. Beyond his athletic achievements, Mariano was recognized for fostering a Christ-centered team culture focused on leadership and student-athlete development, leaving a lasting foundation for the university’s volleyball program. Best of luck to Coach Kyle in his new role.