Asst Director Boys Volleyball / 14s-1 Boys Head Coach: Matthew Vilbas
Coach Matt Vilbas, of Allentown, PA, brings decades of volleyball experience as a player, collegiate athlete, and youth coach. He played 3 years at Whitehall High School, 3 years with Club Lehigh, and 3 years at Long Island University Southampton as an Outside Hitter, competing at the NCAA Division II level as a dual-sport athlete in volleyball and soccer.
Coaching Experience and Specialization
- Assistant Director, Boys Program and Head Coach, 14-1 Boys
- 1 year coaching Burke Recreation Volleyball Club; 2 years coaching No Panic Volleyball (14 Boys Club/Skills/BVT)
- Former Head Coach, BRYC U14 Boys led an undefeated season in 2024
- 6-year coaching tenure with BRYC Elite U12 Soccer
- Specializes in read and reaction - helping players see, read, and break down the game as it plays out
- Focus on fundamental skill-building in serving, passing, and mental resilience
Career Highlights and Achievements
- NCAA Division II Athlete - Outside Hitter, LIU Southampton Volleyball
- Dual-sport collegiate athlete in Volleyball & Soccer, scholarship recipient in both
- All-Conference Player - Whitehall High School, PA (1999)
- Guided BRYC U14 Boys to an undefeated season and tournament win in 2024
- Coached the 2025–2026 Boys 14-1 team through a season "filled with great team and player moments"
- Helped rec-level players advance to competitive club volleyball
Certifications and Credentials
- USA Volleyball IMPACT Certified
- SafeSport Certified
- First Aid/CPR/AED Certified
- CHRVA and AAU Member
- Certified Personal Trainer - Fitness and Nutrition
- USCG 200-Ton Master License
- Bachelor's Degree in Marine Science and Biology, LIU Southampton
Why He Loves Volleyball and Coaching Philosophy
Matt played soccer and volleyball through high school and college, and the people and experiences he shared through volleyball are what kept him in the sport. His coaching philosophy: “It all starts with defense. Get low, and get after it.” He believes in creating safe, positive learning environments where players can grow and excel, leading by example and holding himself to the same standard he asks of his players.
Vision for the Season
Matt's goal for his players this season is simple: have fun, get better, and compete. His go-to advice: move on - look to the next play and what you can do.
Personal Interests and Fun Fact
An outdoor enthusiast, Matt enjoys sailing, fishing, scuba diving, and painting, and spends his off-court time with his family and dog. His proudest achievement is being a husband to his high school sweetheart and a father to his son and daughter.
Fun Fact: Matt is a USCG Merchant Marine Captain and spends much of his non-court time on the water.