4/11/25

Standing at an impressive 6’5″, Hopewell Valley senior Shane Sullivan has become a formidable force on the volleyball court. As a middle blocker who holds Bulldog school records for career kills and blocks, Sullivan’s journey in the sport began with a simple act of sibling support.

“My twin sister, Grace, is who introduced me to volleyball in 8th grade,” Sullivan recalls. “I would watch her middle school games, which later inspired me to become a player.”

That inspiration has transformed into a remarkable high school career. Sullivan currently holds multiple school records, including the most career kills and blocks, as well as the most kills in a single game (17). These achievements didn’t happen overnight but resulted from years of dedicated training and passion for the sport.

“I love to play any front row position, but middle is definitely my favorite,” says Sullivan, who has played at Central Jersey Volleyball Academy (CJVA) for four years.

Sullivan’s volleyball journey began in earnest in April 2021 when he joined CJVA’s spring league. Later that year, he made their 15 national team, which exposed him to a much higher level of competition than what he had experienced in gym class. Sullivan continued his development at CJVA, playing on their 16s and 17s teams before becoming a practice player in his 18s year.

“I enjoyed my first year playing club volleyball very much and got to experience volleyball at a much higher level than gym class volleyball,” Sullivan shares. “At CJVA, I met incredible players such as Div Patel, Christian Osborne, Devon Fernandez, and Dusk, who made practice and tournaments memorable.”

Sullivan’s volleyball journey has come full circle, as he now serves as a coach at CJVA, passing on the knowledge and skills he’s acquired. “Coaching is something I’ve already started to do, and I hope to continue coaching throughout college and postgraduate,” he explains. “Coaching at CJVA didn’t just help the players I worked with, it also pushed me to become a better athlete.”

Sullivan credits his father, a former lacrosse coach, with teaching him how to connect with players and break down complex skills into fun and productive drills. This family support has been crucial to his success.

“My biggest support group is my Dad. Every game I have, whether it is home or away, a 20-minute drive or an hour drive, he will always be in the stands supporting me,” Sullivan says gratefully. “I would also like to shout out my mom for helping me create my volleyball highlight videos, thanks Mom!”

At Hopewell Valley, Sullivan is part of what he describes as “a very dedicated and hardworking varsity squad.” He appreciates teammates like Chris Myers, Paul Laitusis, and Kirthi Suryanarayan, who spent their off-season playing for PVC, bringing more versatility to the team.

“My dad has always told me that the underclassmen’s volleyball ability will determine my senior season outcome, and I am proud of how much work they all have shown during their off-seasons,” Sullivan notes.

The team benefits from Coach Venanzi’s challenging schedule, designed to push the players to compete at the highest level. “I am thankful that he has such a passion for the team, and Hopewell will not disappoint his expectations,” Sullivan asserts with confidence.

That confidence is shared by the entire team. “The bulldogs come into every game with the same mindset: win the game,” he states simply.

Sullivan also feels immense gratitude for Coach Becky, who has been his club coach for all four years at CJVA. “Unfortunately for her, she was my coach for all 4 years,” he jokes. “However, she taught me everything I needed to know about volleyball, which ultimately led to me writing this article response. I am so thankful I chose CJVA as my club team, and so thankful for all the coaches who have taught me through my journey there.”

When he’s not on the volleyball court, Sullivan has other interests. “When I’m not playing volleyball, you will see me on a pickleball court. Me and my friend Angelo have been training for our pickle ball era this summer,” he shares. He also expresses a desire to “play beach volleyball in California sometime.”

Although Sullivan doesn’t plan to play D1 or D3 volleyball in college, he intends to join a college club team, ensuring that volleyball remains part of his future.

Every athlete has their pre-game rituals, and Sullivan is no exception. “Before every game, you will see me eating my Cheez-Itz. I am the biggest Cheez-Itz fan. Specifically, jalapeno flavored Cheez-Itz Snap’d is my favorite,” he reveals.

As he completes his senior year at Hopewell Valley, Sullivan continues to push himself toward breaking more school volleyball records. With his height, skill, passion for the game, and supportive family behind him, there’s little doubt that Shane Sullivan will leave a lasting legacy on Hopewell Valley boys volleyball—both as a player and, potentially, as a future coach.