Like most student-athletes, Caleb Schall thrives on parent support. But the family dynamic for the junior setter is not quite what his teammates are accustomed to.  While the other players’ parents stand in the bleachers, Schall’s father is right there with him on the sidelines.

Dan Schall is the head coach for the North Allegheny Boys’ Volleyball Team and is coming up on his 20th season. He played collegiately at Penn State and has been coaching ever since, adding practically annually to the NA team’s list of WPIAL championships.

Schall treats the job not only as an opportunity to compete but also to lead and to teach.

“I was able to witness that firsthand through my dad’s coaching career,” Coach Schall said. “Seeing kids develop and bond and find something that they are passionate about is beautiful.”

When it comes to volleyball, however, Caleb does not only take after his father and grandfather. Volleyball runs throughout the Schall family. Caleb’s mother was Wisconsin Player of the Year before playing at Penn State. Additionally, both of his dad’s brothers played for Penn State, one of whom is currently the Assistant Coach for the Division I Girls’ Volleyball Team at the University of North Carolina.

“I’ve been playing for as long as I can remember,” Caleb said. “My dad has been the coach for my whole life, so I grew up in the gym.”

Caleb is a setter for the NA team. He’s also a member of the Cross Country Team and plays basketball for NABA. But it’s on the volleyball court where the young Schall excels, having played varsity since his freshman year. 

“My dad has taught me everything there is to know about volleyball,” he said. “Having his knowledge for the game has helped me tremendously.”

Having a son on the team could mean trouble for some coaches, but Coach Schall sees only the upside. 

“The time together is the best part,” Coach Schall said. “I know these years are fleeting, so I value every minute in the gym with Caleb and with all of his teammates.”

Likewise, having a father as a coach may present conflicts for some athletes, but Caleb handles it well. 

“It causes less pressure for sure,” Caleb said, “but he knows my abilities and tendencies, and helps me when I need it.  I never have to worry about underperforming with him as my coach.”

Of course, as anyone who has played a team sport where a parent-child duo is present can attest, concerns about favoritism can loom large.  The Boys’ Volleyball Team, however, is a notable exception. 

“I know my dad would never favor me over my other teammates in the gym,” Caleb said. “I think it makes me a better player in some ways, knowing that I have to be at my best.”

Following their triumph as state champions in 2019, the team’s season was canceled last spring due to COVID-19. Nevertheless, as they train for the 2021 season opener next month, the team continues to strengthen the bond that has been the foundation to their success over the decades. 

For the Schall duo, the team is essentially extended family.

“Our coaching staff has known these kids since they first picked up a volleyball, so the family connection—the family feel—runs deep, regardless of biology,” Coach Schall said. “My hope is that every kid–son or not–knows that they are cared for and loved by our coaches and by one another.”