Balzer named Seton LaSalle soccer coach
Seton LaSalle has hired Nick Balzer as its newest head varsity boys’ soccer coach.
The 2007 graduate has been involved with the program as both a student and assistant coach.
A two-year varsity starter, Balzer led the WPIAL in goals scored and propelled the Rebels to a PIAA Championship in 2006. Balzer went on to play four seasons at Wheeling Jesuit University while majoring in business management.
Balzer has served as an assistant coach at SLS for the past eight years.
“I love the fact that I’m already familiar with so much here, having spent so much time at Seton LaSalle,” Balzer said.
Currently, Balzer works as a credit underwriter for a family-owned company. He resides in Baldwin Township with his wife, two step-children, and their 6-month old.
“We are pleased to bring Nick on as our head coach,” SLS principal Lauren Martin said. “His success as a player here and familiarity with the program will allow for a seamless transition.”
SLS Athletic Director Bill DaBaldo added that Balzer’s past eight seasons in the program were “an asset” and that his attitude toward the player and game itself is “one of respect, discipline and enthusiasm.
“He will transition easily into the role of head coach,” DaBaldo continued. “I am excited to see the upward mobility. He will provide a team with a track-record of success and consistent playoff appearances.”
Balzer equally is excited to take over the reins.
“Seton LaSalle has opened the doors to every opportunity in my life, and I wouldn’t be where I am without that experience,” he said. “I really look forward to helping these student-athletes have those same doors opened for them.”
In addition to returning assistant coaches Tyler Balzer, ’12; Mark DelGreco, 06; and Mike Thomas, ’79, and Patrick Vaughan, ’08, Coach Balzer will add David DelGreco, ’09, to his staff. DelGreco also played for the Rebels. He was an All-American player who held national scoring records for high school soccer, including top goal-scorer in the U.S. after a 60-goal season. DelGreco finished with a 110 career goals in his scholastic career.