Volleyball: State Champions Crowned on Final Day of Tournament

DENVER – All five of the Colorado High School Activities Association’s state champions were crowned Saturday on the final day of the 2023 Girls Volleyball State Championships at the Denver Coliseum. 

There were no first-time winners, but Merino became the first program in 1A to win four-straight championships, as it captured its 14th state title. The 14 titles marks the second-most by any individual school in state history (Platte Valley, 15 in 4A) and the most of any 1A school in Colorado preps history.

In another remarkable feat, Resurrection Christian won three matches today as it emerged from the consolation bracket to reach the semifinals en route to its third state title in school history.

Prior to the start of the championship game, the Colorado High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) recognized the volleyball coach awards from the 2023 season:

• The Pioneer Award was established in order to recognize an individual who has helped to pave the way for others to follow. Their service, leadership contributions to volleyball, and longevity have made it possible for others to pursue their passion to coach volleyball. The 2023 award winner is Shane Forrest from Montrose High School.
• The Horizon Award was established to recognize newer coaches who have been at their schools at least three years and whose enthusiasm and involvement in their volleyball program has made significant improvements in their school’s overall success. The 2023 award winner is Megan King from Fleming High School.  
• The Coach of the Year Award was established to recognize coaches who have made a significant impact on the progression of individual and team volleyball performance at a district, regional and state level. The 2023 award winner is Christin Sutter from Merino High School. 

Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports (CCGS) also presented the Helen McCall Coach of the Year Award, which is given annually to honor a coach who is making a profound difference in the lives of female athletes. Helen McCall was a founding member of CCGS after teh establishment of Title IX. The 2023 Helen McCall Coach of the Year Award went to Delta High School’s Beth Nelson. 
 

Recaps

5A Championship Recap: Valor Christian Captures Second-Straight Title, 58th-Straight Win
4A Championship Recap: Palmer Ridge Fills Void to Win State Title
3A Championship Recap: Resurrection Christian Defies Odds, Brings Home State Championship
2A Championship Recap: Wiggins Claims Championship In Rematch Against Sedgwick County
1A Championship Recap: Merino Wins Fourth-Straight Title
 

Photo galleries

• Thursday Photos
• Friday Photos
• Saturday Photos

Brackets with final scores

• 5A Bracket
• 4A Bracket
• 3A Bracket
• 2A Bracket
• 1A Bracket