O’Callaghan named Sandy Valley girls soccer coach

Sandy Valley High School has appointed Daniel O’Callaghan as head coach of the girls soccer program. O’Callaghan will continue as head boys soccer coach while leading both programs for the Cardinals.

O’Callaghan joined Sandy Valley Local Schools as a teacher in 2017 and has served as head boys soccer coach for six years. The district said he has built a foundation focused on skill development, teamwork and sportsmanship.

“Coach O’Callaghan has consistently demonstrated a high level of knowledge, leadership and commitment to our student-athletes,” Athletic Director Beau Balderson said. “His experience at multiple levels of the sport and his ability to connect with players make him an excellent choice to lead both our boys and girls soccer programs.”

Originally from Wales, O’Callaghan graduated from Hiram College, where he played collegiate soccer, and later competed in semiprofessional soccer for five years. Since 2013, he has coached club and semiprofessional soccer.

“It is an asset to have someone with Daniel’s experience and dedication serving our students both in the classroom and on the field,” Superintendent Matt Whitted said. “We are excited to see him take on this new challenge and continue to grow our soccer programs.”

O’Callaghan said he is looking forward to coaching both teams and continuing to build a strong soccer culture at Sandy Valley.