San Marcos swept Santa Ynez Tuesday to finish 7-1 in the Channel League and share first place with Santa Barbara, the Royals’ first league championship since 2014.
With seven seniors honored on Senior Night, San Marcos prevailed 25-7, 25-12, and 25-15.
“Our goal going into every season is a league championship,” Royals coach Roger Kuntz said. “They are difficult to come by as Santa Barbara has won seven of the last 10 league titles.”
The Royals were led on offense by senior middle hitter Zach Van Bogelen, who had eight kills and three solo blocks.
“Zach is a two-sport athlete and he has gotten stronger as the season has progressed,” Kuntz said. “It was his turn!”
Senior libero Mason Tuttle had nine digs, “and was very strong from the service line,” Kuntz said. “He anchored our service receive offense and was all over the court.”
Sophomore Cliff Ficker and senior outside hitter Jack Garcia each had seven kills.
The Royals are 24-7 overall. They will find out April 25 who they will face in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs.