HOUGHTON, N.Y. – David Bourne has been named head coach of the Houghton University men's volleyball program, Director of Athletics Matthew Webb announced today.
 
Bourne steps into the role after serving as the lead assistant for the program in its inaugural season this spring under coach Lindsay Seddon.
 
"After an extensive national search, it became clear that the best candidate was already right here under our nose. Dave has a long history in the volleyball world, as a player, coach, and official.  His vast knowledge and experience in the game and in the region will serve the program well," said Webb. "What I am most excited about is that Dave is passionate about the student-athletes in our program and seeing them grow not only as volleyball players, but as young men. We are excited about the continuity we will have in the staff as we continue to build the program."
 
In addition to his one season with the Highlanders, Bourne brings a deep resume as a player, coach and official, primarily in the Western New York region.
 
Bourne was a captain and standout for Spencerport High School's Section V Championship team in the mid-70s and went on to a four-year career as starting setter at the University of Rochester. After his collegiate playing days, Bourne served as a player/coach on adult club teams in the early 80s and then returned to serve as an assistant at Spencerport from 1989-1993 and was the modified coach from 1997-2003.
 
He has continued to play in masters and senior competitions, winning 12 gold medals and eight silver medals with the Rochester and Buffalo teams at the Empire State Games. He has also won state games in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and Eastern Canada, and his team is the reigning champion in the 60+ age group at U.S. Senior Nationals.
 
"I'm excited about coaching at Houghton. We have a wonderful bunch of young men on the team and it's a privilege to be associated with them," said Bourne. "Houghton's staff is top notch and it will be an honor to be a part of that. My goal is to build upon coach Seddon's foundation. Attracting talented players and building on the skills of the returning players is my first priority."
 
Bourne has also contributed to the sport as a Section V high school official since 2003 and has served on officiating boards for leagues in Monroe, Orleans, Wyoming, Genesee and Livingston counties.
 
Bourne holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Rochester.