The Colorado State volleyball team has announced the hiring of April Sanchez as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2026 season. The announcement was made by head coach Emily Kohan, who highlighted Sanchez’s experience and background.
Sanchez joins Colorado State after six years at the University of New Mexico, where she held the roles of Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. Reflecting on her new position, Sanchez stated, “I am deeply honored to join the Colorado State Ram Family. I am so grateful to Emily for this incredible opportunity to become a Ram and help build upon this program’s storied Tradition of Excellence. The Athletic Department, Emily and Coaching Staff, the Student-Athletes and the Ram Community have all been so welcoming. I am so grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this proud program and eager and excited to get to work to build Champions!”
Coach Kohan expressed enthusiasm about Sanchez joining the staff: “We are incredibly excited to welcome April to the Ramily. A Colorado native, she brings exceptional experience, professionalism, and attention to detail while leading with a people-first approach. April embodies the DNA of our culture and strengthens our mission of BUILDING CHAMPIONS TO WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS!”
During her tenure at New Mexico, Sanchez oversaw defensive systems and tactics, trained receivers, and worked directly with liberos. Under her guidance, New Mexico regularly ranked among the Mountain West Conference leaders in opponent hitting percentage and total digs. She also contributed as recruiting coordinator by identifying talent both domestically and internationally.
Sanchez played a role in community outreach by organizing summer camps, volunteer efforts, and creating partnerships such as one with Special Olympics of New Mexico. Her leadership helped New Mexico secure a top-four conference finish in 2023 and achieve its first postseason win since 2006.
On a national level, Sanchez has worked with USA Volleyball since 2019 as part of its National Team Development Program. In 2025, she served as an assistant coach for the USA Volleyball Girls U19 National Team during the FIVB World Championships in Croatia; there she worked primarily with middle blockers as the team earned a silver medal.
Before joining New Mexico, Sanchez spent four seasons at Idaho State University focusing on scouting, film analysis, recruiting support, and player development. She also gained head coaching experience at Colorado Northwestern Community College.
At Colorado State, Sanchez will focus on assisting with middle blocker defense, back-row defense, and overall player development.
The Rams will begin their first season competing in the PAC-12 Conference this fall.
