HONOLULU—University of Hawai'i head women's volleyball coach Dave Shoji will take leave from the team due to prostate cancer. Associate head coach Jeff Hall will oversee the program in Shoji's absence as he undergoes treatment.
 
"I was diagnosed with prostate cancer a few weeks ago but I did not want to announce it and become a distraction to the team." Shoji said. "I will be undergoing treatment that will take me away from my everyday coaching duties for the next several weeks. With the help of my team of doctors, my wife Mary, and the support of our family, I am trusting in God to get through this and see what my future holds."
 
"First and foremost, Dave and his family are in our prayers," said UH Athletics Director David Matlin. "When Dave and I met last week, I understood the depth of how much he cares for the program and his student-athletes. He is an amazing coach and ambassador for the state of Hawai'i, the University of Hawai'i, and the sport of volleyball. We will continue to support him each and every step of the way."
 
"Coach Shoji is a true treasure for UH and for Hawai'i," said David Lassner, UH President and UH Manoa Interim Chancellor. "We are saddened at the news of this challenge to his health, and our immediate priority is to support Dave and his family as they identify the best path forward."
 
Shoji recently completed his 42nd season at the helm of the Rainbow Wahine volleyball program. He guided the 'Bows to their fourth Big West Conference title in five years and their 24th-straight and 35th overall NCAA Tournament appearance. In the final week of the regular season, Shoji became just the second NCAA Division I head volleyball coach to reach the 1,200-victory milestone, joining Penn State's Russ Rose. Currently, Shoji has a career record of 1,202-204-1.