Grant Hoover proved to be a very effective middle hitter through his junior season for Seneca Valley’s boys volleyball team.

But his best role, and a spectacular season, was still to come.

Hoover was moved to outside hitter this past season and responded with 417 kills, 265 digs, 36 blocks and 36 service aces. He was recently named to the Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association’s First Team.

Seneca Valley’s Grant Hoover attacks the net in a match against Butler in May. Hoover averaged over 20 kills per match and was named to Class 3A’s First Team by the Pennsylvania Volleyball Coaches Association. Justin Guido/Butler Eagle 05/11/23

“He probably would have been named All-State multiple times had he played at outside hitter his whole career,” said SV coach Brett Poirier, “but we needed him so badly at middle hitter.

“Before his senior year, he was on squads that were loaded with leaders. This year, I asked him to be the leader and he stepped up. He was our workhorse.”

Also garnering First Team recognition was North Catholic junior outside hitter Lucas Gunther in Class 2A.