Charlie Wade, the top assistant for the University of Hawai'i women's volleyball team, has been hired as the new Pacific women's volleyball coach.

Wade, 42, becomes the fifth Pacific women's coach in the program's 31-year history. His hiring was announced yesterday by Director of Athletics Lynn King.

"Becoming the head coach at University of Pacific is a great opportunity for me both personally and professionally," said Wade in a statement. "I am excited to have the responsibility of leading one of the elite programs in women's collegiate volleyball."

Wade has spent 11 seasons on the Rainbow Wahine volleyball staff, nine as an associate head coach to Dave Shoji.

"We are really pleased to welcome Charlie Wade to the Pacific family," said King in a statement. "He brings an excellent background and a wealth of experience to this position."

Wade had been considered for several head coaching jobs in the past, including the University of Washington.

Last year, Wade turned down the Fresno State women's volleyball head coaching position.

Wade filled in as UH interim coach in 2004 and went 3-0 when Shoji attended to a family matter.

The Pacific job became open when coach Jayne McHugh was offered reassignment Nov. 30, according to The Record newspaper, which covers the Stockton, Calif., area.

Wade is married to former University of Washington player Tani Martin.