Delta College volleyball team dominates regular season, eyes state title.
STOCKTON, Calif. — They’re taking down anyone who gets in the way. The San Joaquin Delta College women’s volleyball team out of Stockton is off to one of its best starts in program history — and the scary part is, they still have unfinished business.
“We took 10th in the state last year. But we had a lot of injuries last year,” said sophomore Paige Taylor. “This year coming back we just wanted to stay healthy, and show everyone our revenge tour of what we can do when we’re fully healthy.”
So far, that “revenge tour” is living up to its name. The Mustangs have lost just one match all season, cementing themselves as one of the top teams in California.
“I feel like the group of girls we have on this team so far are a lot of girls that are driven, on and off the court,” said freshman Hadlee Gray. “Even in the weight room, we’re working hard to put our best foot forward. And every practice, no matter how tired we are, we’re constantly working hard and pushing each other.”
The Mustangs’ success builds on a legacy of excellence. The volleyball program has reached the state Final Four six times and holds the most Elite Eight appearances of any program in California. A big reason for that consistency, players say, is head coach Molly Hummel.
“Coach Molly is the best coach I ever had,” Taylor said. “She truly is not just a person who teaches me the skills, but she teaches me how to be a good person off the court and on the court. I wouldn’t be here without her.”
Gray agreed. “Coach Molly — I feel like I can give everything to her. She has put together this program. She works hard on and off the court for us. She’s always talking to us, getting to know us, really wanting the best for us, not just as individuals, but for the team as well.”
Hummel, a Stockton native and Lincoln High School graduate, took her talents to the University of the Pacific before beginning her 20-year coaching career. She said her focus at Delta has been building a strong culture centered on teamwork and selflessness.
“Building a strong culture — we’ve really put a lot of emphasis in ‘we’ versus ‘me,’ and being selfless,” Hummel said. “Really accepting the role that you’re given and doing it to the best of your ability. And most importantly, you have to have fun doing what you’re doing.”
And when your record is 23-1, there’s plenty of fun to go around.
“They’re a lot of fun,” Hummel said. “They make this job fun. They make me want to come to work every day and be the best version of me. I feel like I can give them 100%, and in return, they’re giving back that 100%.”
When asked why other teams should fear the Mustangs, one player didn’t hesitate.
“’Cause we’re the best. That’s why they should fear us.”
The Mustangs have four matches left in the regular season before heading into the playoffs, where they’re hoping to finish their “revenge tour” as state champions.
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