Stephen Smietana
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- Email:
- spsmietana@carlow.edu
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- Year:
- 1
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- Title:
- Head Coach
Bio
Stephen has been a part of the Carlow University Athletics family since 2023, when he served as the Men’s Volleyball Assistant Coach for two seasons. He was named the Interim Head Coach for the 2024-25 season and officially accepted the Head Coach position in February 2025.
As a passionate and experienced coach, Stephen hopes to empower athletes to reach their full potential both on and off the court, and he strives to create an environment where hard work, accountability, communication and teamwork lead to success.
Like many others, Stephen’s coaching journey began as an athlete where he developed a deep passion and understanding of what it takes to excel. He is still regularly active as a player and enjoys playing volleyball from the hardwood to the sand. His coaching experience started in 2000 when he became the girls’ head coach at Linesville High School. In year two of his coaching tenure the team had a record of 16-2 and went to the PIAA Regional Playoffs, farther than any team had ever gone in history.
Stephen’s goal is to help athletes not only improve their skills but also grow mentally, emotionally and as individuals. He is excited for the future of the men’s volleyball program and looks forward to seeing it grow.