A Historic Triumph: Cypress Girls Volleyball Claims First CIF-SS Championship
In the heart of Cypress, California, a volleyball dynasty was born. Led by alumna Heather Dillard, the Cypress High School girls volleyball team etched their names into the history books with a resounding victory over California High School in the 2007 CIF-SS III-AA playoffs. This 3-0 sweep marked the first CIF-SS championship for Cypress girls volleyball, capping off a season of dominance and resilience.
The road to the championship was paved with hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Coach Dillard, a Cypress High alumna herself, brought a unique perspective and passion to the program. Her knowledge of the game, combined with her ability to connect with the players, created a winning culture.
One of the standout players on that championship team was Lauryn Herrick, who would go on to be named the CIF Player of the Year. Herrick's exceptional skills and leadership were instrumental in the team's success. Her ability to dominate the net and control the game was a major factor in Cypress's victories.
The championship victory was a culmination of years of hard work and perseverance. The team had previously fallen short in the 1998 CIF-SS finals, losing to Santa Margarita under Coach Dillard's guidance. That experience served as a motivating factor for the 2007 team, who were determined to bring home the championship.
The 2007 CIF-SS championship was a monumental achievement for Cypress High School. It not only solidified the girls volleyball program as a force to be reckoned with but also inspired future generations of athletes. The victory was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of the players and coaching staff. It was a moment that would be remembered for years to come, as Cypress girls volleyball finally claimed their rightful place among the elite teams in Southern California.
Coach Heather Dillard would go on to be named the OC Register Girls Volleyball County Coach of the Year.