Eli Valentin was announced as Appalachian’s newest assistant volleyball coach staff Tuesday, according to a news release.

Valentin has worked at App’s summer volleyball camps for nine years. He served as an instructor in the top court sessions.

“Eli [Valentin] has been a valued member of my camp staff since I arrived in Boone in 2007,” Head Coach Matt Ginipro said in the release. “So, when this last minute opening happened, he was one of the first people I thought of to be our new assistant coach.”

Ginipro said Valentin has the versatility to coach any position on the court.

“But I know our defensive players and serve receive group will really benefit from having him in the gym,” Ginipro said. “On top of his coaching experience, Eli is very high energy and full of positive attitude which I know our players will respond to immediately. “

Valentin said he was excited to join the coaching staff this season and said the team had been welcoming.

“This is a dream come true to be working with an amazing coaching staff and representing the black and gold,” Valentin said.

Valentin said he was  “ready to see this wonderful group put in the work and dedication necessary to be successful.”

Valentin graduated from Lees-McRae College in 2007, where he was a four-year letter winner for the Bobcat volleyball team as a setter. He was named team captain his senior year.

Following his graduation, Valentin was hired as an assistant head coach at Hillscrest High School in Simpsonville, S.C.

He also served as the head coach for Carolina One Volleyball Club in Greenville, S.C.

Story: WILL ROONEY, Intern Sports Reporter