About District Volleyball

Head Coach, San Gabriel Academy | Club Coach, District Volleyball Club

Known throughout the volleyball community as Coach D, Derek Duran has been a cornerstone of the San Gabriel Academy volleyball program since 2008. Under his leadership, SGA has earned more than 15 league championships, multiple deep playoff runs, and CIF titles in 2016, 2018, and 2025. A two-time CIF Coach of the Year, Coach D is widely respected for his strategic mindset, high standards, and unwavering passion for player development both on and off the court.

Coach D’s club coaching journey began in 2003 with San Gabriel Valley Volleyball Club. Over the years, he has held key coaching roles with IMUA Volleyball Club (2020–2023) and Arcadia Foothill VBC (2024–2025), and now continues his work with District Volleyball Club, helping shape the next generation of athletes.

Volleyball runs in his family—his father coached and refereed for over 40 years, and his two daughters now share his love for the game. With decades of experience and a championship pedigree, Coach D brings unmatched energy, insight, and heart to every team he leads.

Head Coach, Glendale Adventist Academy | Club Coach, District Volleyball Club

Michael Wong serves as the Head Coach of Glendale Adventist Academy’s volleyball program, a position he has held since 2024. With a strong background as both a player and a coach, Michael brings deep knowledge, enthusiasm, and leadership to his teams.

Before taking on his current role, Michael served as an Assistant Coach at Glendale Adventist Academy (2023) and as Head Coach for the Glendale Adventist Junior High program. His experience is built on a solid foundation as a former collegiate athlete, having played four years at Pacific Union College, where he refined his understanding of high-level competition and teamwork.

Driven by a love for teaching and mentorship, Michael uses volleyball as a platform to instill discipline, resilience, and confidence in his players. His coaching philosophy centers on helping athletes grow not only as competitors but as individuals prepared for success beyond the court.

Club Coach, District Volleyball Club

With more than 12 years of coaching experience across multiple levels, Coach CJ Nicolas has worked with athletes from middle school through varsity, coaching both boys’ and girls’ programs with excellence and passion. His well-rounded background includes key roles at La Salle High School (Frosh–Varsity, Boys and Girls), Glendale Academy (JV & Varsity Boys), La Sierra University (Women’s), and Redlands Academy (JV Boys).

Coach CJ’s club experience includes time with San Gabriel Volleyball Club (Girls), SG Elite Volleyball (Boys), and Brooklyn Elite Volleyball (Girls). His playing career spans more than a decade at the high school, club, and collegiate levels, both indoor and beach.

Dedicated to technical development and a positive team culture, Coach CJ focuses on empowering players to perform with confidence, discipline, and joy—values that extend well beyond the court.