News and Announcements

Blanchet Catholic School is pleased to announce the appointment of David "Dave" Kellar as the new head 8th grade volleyball coach. Keller will also be the lead coach for the school's mid high volleyball program, working in conjunction with the high school program, to develop student-athletes throughout the Blanchet volleyball pipeline.

Kellar joins a program led by high school head volleyball coach Peter Piexoto, creating a unique partnership between two highly accomplished coaches whose volleyball journeys have been intertwined for more than three decades.

Combined, Kellar and Piexoto bring over 50 years of coaching and playing experience spanning youth club volleyball, high school athletics, collegiate competition, and NCAA Division I programs. Their shared history dates back to one of the most prestigious amateur volleyball events in the country—the 1994 U.S. Olympic Festival in St. Louis.

While their participation in the tournament included a record-setting 111-rally match that became part of volleyball history, the two athletes represented an elite group of players from across the nation and now find themselves reunited as coaches serving the same school community.

Kellar's passion for volleyball began in 1987 at Canyon High School in Southern California, where he played middle hitter. Following graduation, he earned an opportunity to continue his playing career at UC Santa Barbara. However, a serious car accident forced him to decline the offer while recovering from his injuries.

Determined to return to the sport, Kellar resumed competitive volleyball in 1991 at Orange Coast College as a right-side hitter while simultaneously pursuing his goal of competing professionally in beach volleyball. His perseverance paid off in 1994 when he helped Orange Coast College capture the California State Championship. That same year, he earned a spot on the U.S. Olympic Festival team and returned home with a silver medal.

After starting a family, Kellar returned to the sport with renewed purpose. In 2009, he founded DSK Volleyball through the YMCA, creating opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills and passion for the game. Under his leadership, the club achieved national recognition and became one of the premier volleyball programs in Oregon and Washington. Kellar holds multiple awards and numerous honors, including MVP and All-League selections.

Today, Kellar continues his commitment to athlete development through LevelOne Volleyball in Albany, where he provides private instruction, group training, and club volleyball opportunities for players ages 9 and older. His coaching philosophy emphasizes skill development, character growth, and creating opportunities for young athletes to reach their full potential.

"I’m excited to join Coach Piexoto and the other coaches to give players the very best coaching and experience we have. Volleyball has given me opportunities and relationships that have lasted a lifetime," said Kellar. “I believe in paying that forward by helping the next generation of athletes discover what they're capable of accomplishing both on and off the court.”

Blanchet Catholic Middle School Athletic Director Todd Moore expressed enthusiasm for the addition of Kellar to the coaching staff. "Dave's experience, leadership, and passion for developing young athletes make him an outstanding addition to our volleyball program. The opportunity to have both Dave Kellar and Peter Peixoto working together creates an exceptional environment for our student-athletes, from grades 6-12, and strengthens the present and future of volleyball at Blanchet Catholic."

Coach Peixoto also expressed enthusiasm for the addition of Kellar to the coaching staff and volleyball program. “His playing and coaching experience is going to help continue the high level of development of our mid high players and prepare them for the high school program.”

The reunion of Kellar and Piexoto represents a remarkable full-circle moment—two teammates who shared the national stage at the 1994 U.S. Olympic Festival and now, over 3 decades later, share a common mission of developing young athletes and continuing the building of a championship culture at Blanchet Catholic School.

Coach Kellar has three children, Ryan (pictured), and two daughters Makenzie and Samantha.

By Courage and Faith! Welcome to the Cavalier Coach Dave Kellar!

For more information about Middle School Athletic Director please contact Todd Moore at toddmoore@blanchetcatholicschool.com