Nick Castello is returning to the University of Hawaii women’s volleyball program as an assistant coach, UH announced today.

Castello, a former libero with the UH men’s program, previously served as a volunteer assistant in 2017 and ‘18, Robyn Ah Mow’s first two seasons as head coach of the Rainbow Wahine. Castello coached at Irvine Valley College the past two seasons and fills the opening left when associate coach Angelica Ljungqvist left UH in July to return home to Sweden.

“Nick is a passionate coach who is eager to learn and will add a wealth of knowledge to our gym,” Ah Mow said in the announcement of Castello’s hiring. “He previously served as my volunteer coach for two seasons and his work ethic and ability to make those around him better has always been a constant characteristic of his. Nick also understands the strong culture of Rainbow Wahine Volleyball and what it represents not only for the University, but the state as a whole.”

Castello led Irvine Valley to an undefeated regular season in 2019 and joins Kaleo Baxter as full-time assistants under Ah Mow. Faith Ma’afala returns as Director of Operations.

Castello, a graduate of Assets School who played for Maryknoll in high school, started for the Rainbow Warriors from 2011-12 and posted 404 digs in his playing career at UH. He went on to play professionally in Europe for five years. He coached Maryknoll’s boy’s team in 2018.

The Rainbow Wahine begin practice on Monday and open the season on Aug. 27 against Fairfield.