Ex-colleagues reunite as opponents

By STEVE FEINBERG
Collegian Sports Writer

During his 17 years of coaching, Larry Bock has experienced success with both the Juniata men's and women's volleyball program. But what has happened to men's volleyball in Happy Valley the past few years ranks as one of Bock's proudest achievements.

For five years, Lion men's volleyball Coach Mark Pavlik served under Bock in the Juniata women's program. Since then, Pavlik has gone from an understudy to the pinnacle of NCAA volleyball. As the defending national champions, the Lions (15-3, 2-0) are currently No. 7 in the country. Last night, the two met as head coaches for the first time.

The volleyball team's success has brought a sense of pride to Penn State, and Bock has far from forgotten his old assistant.

"He's a valued protege," Bock said of Pavlik. "It's one of the highlights of my career to see the success he's enjoying."

Although Bock's team (8-15, 1-4) is struggling this year, he sees his personal relationship with Pavlik developing into "a nice relationship between the two programs."

"Our whole college community is pleased" with Pavlik's success with the Lions, Bock added. "We try to watch scores of their games."

Pavlik's feelings toward his old boss shows the mutual respect between them.

"He's the god of volleyball," Pavlik said kiddingly.

The Lions' coach values the time he spent under Bock, and he appreciates the job Bock is doing with such a young team. Over half of the Eagles are freshmen.

So with Pavlik preparing for another championship drive this spring, he continues to remember his past.

"I can't say enough about the things (Bock) has taken the time to teach me," he said.