Lady Braves Driven by Culture, Commitment, and Championship Dreams
The Santa Fe Indian School (SFIS) volleyball program is entering the 2025 season with momentum, motivation, and a mission: to bring home the school’s first state volleyball title.
Offseason Focus: Building on Foundation
Under the leadership of Head Coach Joseph Garcia, now in his third year, the Lady Braves have taken major strides both on and off the court. The program has grown steadily across campus and tribal communities, now developing athletes from middle school through high school. This offseason, the focus has been on total development—improving both offensive and defensive systems while building team chemistry.
“We’re growing at all levels,” said Coach Garcia. “These young ladies have committed to elevating their game in every way possible.”
Player Commitment at the Next Level
A testament to the team’s growth is the dedication players are showing during the offseason. Many have joined competitive club volleyball programs throughout the region and are consistently participating in team workouts with coaches. Notably, senior Kacey Tsosie made the decision to forgo her basketball season entirely to pursue high-level volleyball competition.
“That kind of sacrifice speaks volumes,” Garcia said. “It’s exciting to see that level of commitment. I know it’s going to pay off.”
Key Departures and Leadership Shift
The team will return nearly its entire roster from the 2024 campaign. The lone departure is senior setter Haley Aguilar, who has been the backbone of the offense since her freshman year. Known for her leadership and consistency, Haley’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet.
“She truly led our team to new heights,” Garcia reflected. “She’ll be greatly missed, not just for her skill but for the guidance and example she set.”
Players to Watch: Senior Surge Incoming
With a strong returning core, SFIS is looking for breakout seasons from several seniors, including Brenna, Kai, Kacey, Danielle, Michelle, and Tony. While each plays a different role on the court, they share a common goal: pushing the Lady Braves further than ever before.
“I can’t name just one,” said Garcia. “Our depth is one of our strengths, and we’ve got some younger girls stepping up and challenging for spots, which is every coach’s dream.”
Offseason Training and Unique Touches
The offseason regimen includes strength and conditioning, skill-specific drills, and even sand volleyball tournaments to keep things dynamic. These sessions have not only sharpened individual skills but also strengthened team unity and competitiveness.
Coaching Growth and Strategy Evolution
The coaching staff has doubled down on professional development this year. By studying the game closely, integrating player feedback, and adopting new techniques seen at higher levels of play, they aim to evolve tactically and stay ahead.
“We’re learning, adjusting, and finding what best fits our players,” Garcia said. “We’re not just coaching—we’re growing with them.”
Community Support: A Cultural Movement
Since Garcia’s arrival, SFIS Volleyball has become more than a sport—it’s become a movement. Players, coaches, families, and community members have all rallied behind the program.
“Our young ladies represent their families, their tribal communities, and their school every time they step on the court,” said Garcia. “That pride and responsibility drive everything we do.”
Biggest Challenge: The Calendar Clock
One unique challenge SFIS faces is its school calendar. The start of the volleyball season often overlaps with cultural responsibilities and a condensed preseason schedule. Despite this, the Lady Braves consistently show up ready to compete.
“It’s not about individual obstacles—it’s about time,” Garcia said. “But our girls make the most of every minute.”
Looking Ahead
With returning experience, new hunger, and a unified culture, the Lady Braves are not just aiming for a great season—they're aiming for history.
“This is a new era for SFIS Volleyball,” Garcia concluded. “The expectations are higher, the goals are bigger, and our girls are more committed than ever to making it happen.”
 volleyball program is entering the 2025 season with momentum, motivation, and a mission: to bring home the school’s first state volleyball title.
Offseason Focus: Building on Foundation
Under the leadership of Head Coach Joseph Garcia, now in his third year, the Lady Braves have taken major strides both on and off the court. The program has grown steadily across campus and tribal communities, now developing athletes from middle school through high school. This offseason, the focus has been on total development—improving both offensive and defensive systems while building team chemistry.
“We’re growing at all levels,” said Coach Garcia. “These young ladies have committed to elevating their game in every way possible.”
Player Commitment at the Next Level
A testament to the team’s growth is the dedication players are showing during the offseason. Many have joined competitive club volleyball programs throughout the region and are consistently participating in team workouts with coaches. Notably, senior Kacey Tsosie made the decision to forgo her basketball season entirely to pursue high-level volleyball competition.
“That kind of sacrifice speaks volumes,” Garcia said. “It’s exciting to see that level of commitment. I know it’s going to pay off.”
Key Departures and Leadership Shift
The team will return nearly its entire roster from the 2024 campaign. The lone departure is senior setter Haley Aguilar, who has been the backbone of the offense since her freshman year. Known for her leadership and consistency, Haley’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet.
“She truly led our team to new heights,” Garcia reflected. “She’ll be greatly missed, not just for her skill but for the guidance and example she set.”
Players to Watch: Senior Surge Incoming
With a strong returning core, SFIS is looking for breakout seasons from several seniors, including Brenna, Kai, Kacey, Danielle, Michelle, and Tony. While each plays a different role on the court, they share a common goal: pushing the Lady Braves further than ever before.
“I can’t name just one,” said Garcia. “Our depth is one of our strengths, and we’ve got some younger girls stepping up and challenging for spots, which is every coach’s dream.”
Offseason Training and Unique Touches
The offseason regimen includes strength and conditioning, skill-specific drills, and even sand volleyball tournaments to keep things dynamic. These sessions have not only sharpened individual skills but also strengthened team unity and competitiveness.
Coaching Growth and Strategy Evolution
The coaching staff has doubled down on professional development this year. By studying the game closely, integrating player feedback, and adopting new techniques seen at higher levels of play, they aim to evolve tactically and stay ahead.
“We’re learning, adjusting, and finding what best fits our players,” Garcia said. “We’re not just coaching—we’re growing with them.”
Community Support: A Cultural Movement
Since Garcia’s arrival, SFIS Volleyball has become more than a sport—it’s become a movement. Players, coaches, families, and community members have all rallied behind the program.
“Our young ladies represent their families, their tribal communities, and their school every time they step on the court,” said Garcia. “That pride and responsibility drive everything we do.”
Biggest Challenge: The Calendar Clock
One unique challenge SFIS faces is its school calendar. The start of the volleyball season often overlaps with cultural responsibilities and a condensed preseason schedule. Despite this, the Lady Braves consistently show up ready to compete.
“It’s not about individual obstacles—it’s about time,” Garcia said. “But our girls make the most of every minute.”
Looking Ahead
With returning experience, new hunger, and a unified culture, the Lady Braves are not just aiming for a great season—they're aiming for history.
“This is a new era for SFIS Volleyball,” Garcia concluded. “The expectations are higher, the goals are bigger, and our girls are more committed than ever to making it happen.”)
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