CITY OF FRESNO
Office of Council President Nelson Esparza & Councilmember Brandon Vang __________________________________________ __________________________________________ JERRY P. DYER, Honorable Mayor NELSON ESPARZA, Council President
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ TYLER MAXWELL, Council Vice President ANNALISA PEREA, Councilmember, District 1
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ MIKE KARBASSI, Councilmember, District 2 MIGUEL ARIAS, Councilmember, District 3
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ BRANDON VANG, Councilmember, District 5 NICK RICHARDSON, Councilmember, District 6
WHEREAS, the 2026 Kings Canyon Middle School Boys Volleyball Team made history by winning the school's first-ever Division 1 Boys Volleyball Championship. Their championship run was a remarkable achievement that showcased determination, resilience, and the power of teamwork; and
WHEREAS, entering the playoffs as the No. 4 seed, the Kings Canyon Grizzlies faced some of the league’s top teams. Through discipline and determination, the Grizzlies defeated the No. 2 seed and advanced to the championship match; and
WHEREAS, during the finals, the Grizzlies consistently faced teams that were bigger, taller, and stronger. Despite being undersized compared to many of their opponents, the team was able to compete at the highest level and ultimately earned the Division 1 title. The players committed themselves to improving every day, learning valuable lessons about teamwork, leadership, accountability, and perseverance. The team developed a culture centered around supporting one another; and
WHEREAS, the team was led by Head Coach Andy Xiong, who has dedicated nearly ten years to coaching and mentoring young athletes. His leadership, experience, and commitment to developing student -athletes helped guide the team throughout their championship journey.
Assisting him was Ethan Her, a 20-year -old first- year assistant coach and active Hmong volleyball player. Having recently transitioned from athlete to coach, Ethan brought energy, passion, and a strong connection to the student -athletes. Together, Coaches Xiong and Her helped their players grow not only as athletes but also as young leaders; and WHEREAS, the 2026 Kings Canyon Grizzlies Boys Volleyball Team's first -ever Division 1 championship victory is a milestone that will be remembered for years to come. Their hard work proved that heart, discipline, and teamwork can overcome any challenge. Their achievement has brought immense pride to Kings Canyon Middle School, its families, and the City of Fresno while establishing a lasting legacy for future generations of student-athletes.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED , that we, Mayor Jerry P. Dyer and the Fresno City Council, do hereby proclaim June 25th, 2026, as:
“Kings Canyon Middle School Boys Volleyball Day”
In the City of Fresno
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and affixed the Great Seal of the City of Fresno, California, this Twenty-Fifth Day of June of the Year Two Thousand and Twenty-Six.
Kings Canyon Middle School Boys Volleyball