‘What they got going is special’: Sutter leads D-V heading into stretch run of league play

Sutter Union High School's girls volleyball team has extended its lead in the Sac-Joaquin Division V playoff chase following a straight-set sweep this week. The Golden Empire League powerhouse, currently sitting at 25-5, is now one ratings point ahead of No. 2 Bear River (24-4). Sutter's coach, Matt MacDonald, praised his team's special abilities, dismissing the notion that a rematch with last year's title rivals is inevitable.

Bear River's head coach Matt MacDonald noted that Sutter's offense returned nearly intact, including last year's standout setter Kalena DeLaCerna, and the team seems determined to return to the Division V title game and secure the championship in 2026. Hilmar, last year's CIF state D-V champions, is located in one of the toughest leagues and could become a significant factor in the postseason.

Other notable teams in the division include Ben Holt College Prep (3), Bret Harte and Mariposa (5 and 6), and Calaveras and Linden (both 7). Meanwhile, Yuba City suffered a second consecutive road sweep, falling to No. 4 Nevada Union, who now sits a half-game behind the No. 3 Roseville. The Yuba County rivalry between north and south county heats up as Yuba City travels to Roseville on Tuesday.