ST. DAVIDS, Pa.– Eastern University Athletic Director Eric McNelley announced that Harry Bitzberger has been selected to lead Eastern Men's Volleyball. A successful coach at the high school and club level, Bitzberger has served as an assistant in Eastern's Women's Volleyball program for the past three seasons.

A VMI graduate, Bitzberger began his coaching career in the military. After four years of service, he moved into the corporate world in the healthcare industry before transitioning into small business ownership where he returned to coaching. Though his initial return to coaching was in part to coach his four children, he found success in volleyball and became a West Division Director at East Coast Power and helped develop the girls program at West Chester's Rustin High School from a relatively new program to a conference champion and a state tournament qualifier. He has coached at every age in the club and has continued his education through USA Volleyball and Gold Medal Squared. He has a Master's Degree from the University of Arkansas. 

He has worked with the Rustin program while assisting Eastern Hall of Honor coach Mark Birtwistle with Eastern's successful Women's Volleyball program. With his help, Eastern Women's Volleyball has had three consecutive strong and deep recruiting classes. After a year without a season, the Eagles won the 2021 MAC Commonwealth Championship relying very heavily on players playing in their first season of college volleyball.

"I discovered the best, most rewarding, and impactful things in my life came from focusing on teaching, supporting, and mentoring others," Bitzberger said. "I look forward to building Eastern Men's Volleyball into a premier program through unique commitment to exemplary teamwork, character development, and self-discipline."

"We are pleased to have Harry leading our men's program," McNelley said. "He understands and embraces the mission of the University and our vision for the department. From his time in the military to his work in building businesses, he is a proven leader. I have seen his contribution to our women's program. He is committed to building a great program and developing young people through athletics, and I look forward to seeing Eastern Men's Volleyball grow under his leadership."

Bitzberger will continue to serve as an assistant with Eastern Women's Volleyball this fall.