For Dylan Lasher, Thiel ’14, coaching volleyball isn’t just a profession—it’s a lifelong passion rooted in family, brotherhood, and a deep love for the game. Recently, Dylan celebrated a significant milestone, earning his 100th win as a collegiate head coach, marking a moment of achievement in a career shaped by dedication and perseverance.

Building Leadership Through Delta Sigma Phi

Dylan’s journey to Delta Sigma Phi was an unexpected one. As a sophomore, he was assigned as the resident assistant (RA) for the Fraternity house at Thiel College. “I didn’t know much about Greek life at the time,” Dylan recalled. “But after getting to know the guys, it just felt like a brotherhood.” By his junior year, he had officially joined Delta Sigma Phi, finding a support system that extended beyond the court.

During his time at Thiel, Dylan was a dedicated student-leader balancing athletics, academics, and Fraternity responsibilities. Dylan was a four-year starter and two-year captain of the men’s volleyball team. His experience as a student-athlete, coupled with the unwavering support of his fraternity brothers, helped shape his leadership skills.

“A couple of my brothers were also on the team, and we went through everything together—the tough losses, the great wins, and all the moments in between. The whole fraternity was always there to support us, which made the experience even more special.”

A Commitment to Leadership and Mentorship

After graduation, Dylan’s path led him into coaching, a field where he could put his leadership skills to work by mentoring young athletes. Though he originally pursued physical therapy, he soon realized that his passion lay in developing others through coaching. His first opportunity came as an assistant coach, quickly leading to a head coaching role, where he built a successful athletic program from the ground up—an effort that mirrored the values of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity’s commitment to leadership and excellence.

Just as his coaching career was gaining momentum, the COVID-19 pandemic abruptly cut the season short. At the same time, an opportunity arose to return to his alma mater and rebuild a struggling program. Despite the challenges, Dylan applied the principles of leadership, teamwork, and resilience that he first learned through Delta Sigma Phi. “At the time, there were only five guys on the roster,” he said. “But I knew I wanted to be part of reviving the program.”

Since taking over, Dylan has led the program for five seasons and has recently taken on the role of director of volleyball, overseeing both men’s and women’s teams. His leadership has helped bring stability, success, and a strong culture of mentorship back to the program, culminating in his recent milestone of 100 collegiate wins.

Leadership: A Delta Sigma Phi Tradition

For Dylan, leadership is more than just a career——it’s a family tradition. His mother coached, his sisters played collegiately, and his extended family remains deeply involved in the sport. “We talk volleyball at Christmas. We bounce ideas off each other. It’s just a part of who we are,” he said. The sport has also been a source of strength through personal challenges, including the loss of his father when he was just 16 years old.

To Dylan, leadership is also a core value of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. His journey through the Fraternity helped prepare him to lead, mentor, and inspire. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the lessons I learned from my brothers and the opportunities I was given to grow as a leader.”

Delta Sigma Phi has long been recognized as one of the best fraternities for leadership development, equipping members with the skills to excel in careers, build strong professional networks, and make a lasting impact. The Fraternity’s focus on mentorship, teamwork, and lifelong learning has shaped successful professionals in every field, from business and government to athletics and education.

Looking Ahead: A Lifelong Commitment to Excellence

Reflecting on his success, Dylan credits the athletes he’s coached, the support of his family, and the opportunities provided by those who believed in him. “I was a young coach when I started, and people took a chance on me. I owe a lot to the administrations I’ve worked for, my athletes, and my wife, who understands the time commitment this job requires.”

As he continues to build his career, Dylan remains dedicated to the same values that shaped him as a Delta Sigma Phi brother—commitment, leadership, and the power of teamwork. With his milestone 100th win behind him, the next chapter of his coaching career promises even greater achievements ahead—proving once again that Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity builds leaders for life.