Coach

Orchard Park Central Schools

During a 34 year career as a Global Studies and Psychology teacher at Orchard Park High School, Walt Stefani’s name became synonymous with boys’ volleyball.  

A stand-out player in both high school and college, Walt parlayed his prowess as a player into a highly successful coaching career.  During his 30 years coaching boys’ volleyball at Orchard Park, Walt acquired an astounding 559-159 (.779 winning percentage) overall record, 17 divisional championships, 9 Section VI Division I/Class A championships, 3 regional championships, and held 2 undefeated seasons in 1991 and 2008.  In addition to coaching, Walt has been the Section VI Boys’ Volleyball Chairman since 1999. 

Walt was instrumental in introducing a number of opportunities for volleyball players across Western New York to hone their skills.  In 1994, Walt started up the Power Station Volleyball Club and led his coaches and teams to compete for 15 years in regional and national men’s volleyball tournaments all around the country.  This effort was part of the Western Empire Volleyball Association, and was sponsored by the USA Olympic Volleyball Committee.  In 1998, he subsequently founded the similarly named Power Station Volleyball Summer Camp, which he still directs today.  For three weeks each summer, these camps offer positive instruction from some of the best volleyball coaches in the area.  

Over the years, Walt has received numerous awards and honors, but what has set him apart is his unwavering dedication to his players.  Walt has coached and developed student-athletes to become Division All-Stars, All WNY All-Stars, and even All Americans.  He also has been a significant influence in helping to secure scholarships at Division I colleges and universities, and placing many in Division II and III schools.  Walt has always been available to his athletes for counseling, mentoring, or offering encouragement when needed, and continues to influence their lives with his positive attitude and his big heart.