Good Sports: Sanger High boys volleyball wins first state championship in school history

SANGER, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Sanger High School boys volleyball team has cemented its place in school history after capturing the program's first-ever state championship, marking a milestone more than a century in the making.

"This season's boys volleyball team did something no other Apaches have been able to accomplish," players said, reflecting on a historic run that culminated in the title.

"We were like - we're going to be the first team. That really motivated us," sophomore Troy Hingano said.

In over 120 years of school history, Sanger High had never brought home a state championship trophy. That changed last Saturday, when the Apaches defeated Francis Parker of San Diego in four sets to secure the title.

The victory was significant beyond the school itself. Sanger became the first team from the Central Valley to win a boys volleyball state championship and the first sports team from the school to even appear in a state championship game.

"When the realization finally hit it was like Dang we really did it. All the hours, all the hard work, everything that we've sacrificed with our coaches and everything, we finally did it," junior Ryan Vang said.

For players, the win also carried broader meaning about representation and recognition for teams outside traditional powerhouse regions.

"I think it just means like - we can play. It's not just SoCal or LA," Hingano said.

Head coach Scott Okada credited the team's steady growth and confidence throughout the season.

"I don't know if we've seen a group improve as much as they did this season. You could just see the belief build as the season went on," Okada said.

Players said the experience is one they will carry with them long after the season.

"It's the buxx and excitement but it's also the pride that you're representing the valley. It's a really cool thing," Vang said.

With a young roster and only three graduating seniors, the Apaches are already looking ahead, hoping their historic achievement is not a one-time moment but the start of sustained success.

"It's kind of neat for these boys to know like hey they've done something special... Even if we come from this small town we can still do amazing things," Okada said.

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