SANGER – The rise and success of boys volleyball in the Central Section may not necessarily rest on the shoulders of the Sanger boys, but as the Apaches continue their development as a major program, their success bodes well for a sport that still resides in relative obscurity.
But according to Sanger head coach Scott Okawa, Sanger, and boys volleyball in the Central Section, are still working to break down certain perceptions and a lack of interest in volleyball to encourage more kids to become involved with this fun sport.
“Boys volleyball in our area, in the Central Valley, is still very much growing, and it’s not like that in Southern or Northern California,” said Okawa. “There are a lot more teams and travel club volleyball, we’re starting to develop that; but we’re still fighting some perceptions to get kids to try it.”
The Apaches execute the fundamentals of the game really well: serving and passing are their specialties. And that’s where they differ from some of the other potent teams in the state.
“When you see our teams go play up north or down south, we might not always be as big, but we serve and pass really well, whereas some of those other schools from those areas focus on just pounding the ball, they don’t play good defense, and they don’t pass real well,” said Okada.
Sanger’s growth into a major contender has now spread to these other powerhouse programs up and down the state. As the Apaches reputation continues to grow, so will the growth and popularity of the game in the Section.
“So, some years our offense is going to look a little different than others, but we try to always be scrappy defensively, serve and pass well,” said Okada. “Those are our staples, and I think that’s kind of the Central Valley in general.”
According to Okada, the Apaches have earned so much respect from these other teams that they’re asking to come to the Central Valley to compete in their tournament. And that is a huge step in the right direction of respect for Sanger and other teams in the Section.
“I like the idea that if we can do what I believe these guys can, and grow through our schedule and the different tournaments we’re at, I like our chances at the end of the season,” said Okada. “This year, I think it’s a little bit more open, and anyone could have a really good night or struggle.”
Core Values
Family, commitment and enthusiasm are the three core values preached by Okada and his staff. The team can only win games based on their play on the court; but these values have a direct correlation on how the Apaches play in every game.
“We really want to try and build that connection and treat each other like family,” said Okada. “We want them to enjoy the time together. That’s a big part of them, to learn that understanding of what it takes to be part of something and sacrifice and be responsible.”
So far, these basic beliefs have helped lift the Apaches into the upper echelon of elite teams in the state. Under Okada, Sanger has gone an astonishing 402-140. From 2017-24, the Apaches have won six consecutive league titles, and the CIF NorCal Boys Championship against Bishop O’ Dowd (Oakland) in 2023.
“Our goals are always to try and win our league, and then try and compete for the D-I CIF title,” said Okada. “But I always tell them, if we’re doing the other things and sticking to our core values, and working on improving and playing hard, we will find ourselves in a position to compete for that.”
The Apaches have jumped out to a 7-2 start so far. And while the 2024-25 season is still young, Sanger is currently ranked #25 in the nation by MaxPreps as of March 13. Unless the Apaches completely implode, it seems inevitable that they’ll be challenging for volleyball supremacy yet again.
“I like the idea that if we can do what I believe these guys can, and grow through our schedule and the different tournaments we’re at, I like our chances at the end of the season,” said Okada. “This year, I think it’s a little bit more open, and anyone could have a really good night or struggle.”
