ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - 2020 Galt High graduate Haley Sanchez is continuing to make her mark as a student-athlete at Cosumnes River College, showing resilience, versatility and a true love for competition as she returns to volleyball this season.

Sanchez originally played indoor volleyball for CRC from 2020 through 2022. Because of the impact of COVID, she only used one year of athletic eligibility during that time while also completing her academic goals and earning her AA Degree. After some time away, Sanchez made the decision in the summer of 2025 to return to school and athletics.

Her comeback began when she tried out for and made the CRC softball team. Although she earned a spot on the team, Sanchez ultimately decided that softball was not the right fit for her. That decision opened the door for a new challenge: beach volleyball. With no prior beach volleyball experience, Sanchez tried out for the CRC beach volleyball team, made the roster and competed for Cosumnes this spring.

Sanchez’s journey is not finished. After completing her 2026 beach volleyball season, she plans to continue and complete her indoor volleyball career at Cosumnes River College in fall 2026.

“It’s been really rewarding to continue my athletic journey with volleyball this season, especially after having the opportunity to represent my college in both softball and volleyball,” Haley Sanchez said. “Being able to compete in two sports has helped me grow a lot as both an athlete and a person, and I’m grateful for all the experiences and relationships that have come from it. This volleyball season, I’m looking forward to continuing to improve my game, competing at a high level and making lasting memories both on and off the court.”

Her mother and former coach, Jennifer Sanchez, shared how proud she is of Haley and everything she has accomplished.

“We are so very proud of her,” Jennifer Sanchez said.

From indoor volleyball to softball, then to beach volleyball with no previous beach experience, Haley has continued to prove that hard work, courage and a willingness to try something new can lead to incredible opportunities. As she prepares for the next chapter of her volleyball career at CRC, Haley Sanchez remains a strong example of perseverance and passion for local athletes to look up to.