Gym class at Sunlake has changed over time and some people believe that it has changed in a positive way. Obviously, not everyone agrees with that, but most can agree with the fact Coach Ricabal has had a very positive impact here at Sunlake and in his classes. Coach Ricabal came to Sunlake two years ago, and since then has become one of the most liked coaches here at Sunlake. He teaches plenty of classes, such as basketball and weight training, but one class that stands out is his volleyball class. 

   Coach Ricabal had never taught a volleyball class before the 2024-25 school year, so it is a new experience for him just as it is for everyone in the class. Although new, it wasn’t something that he couldn’t handle, and he came into the school year prepared. Coach Ricabal and his fellow coaches came up with a new plan to change the way kids approach gym class so kids can stay fit and participate, and have a good time while doing it. At the start of the year, he let the kids become familiar and even become friends with each other. Once they were familiar with each other, he then made teams of six. In an interview with Coach Ricabal he stated, “I make sure everyone is involved, so it doesn’t matter the skill, as long as they feel like they are a part of a team, people are usually going to respond to that.” Coach was not wrong when he said that; student Edrian Dopico stated in an interview that, “Coach Ricabal teaches us new things and really helps us grow as a person.” Students are clearly responding to the way Coach Ricabal has been teaching, and the way he is approaching the class. 

  Most of the time, students purposely choose gym class but not always. Some students may also be new to sports in the gym class, such as volleyball. This can cause different skill levels between students. Coach Ricabal had to figure out a way to successfully balance out the teams and help to make students become interested in the sport. The approach Coach Ricabal took this year was unique and when asked about it, he stated, “I usually try to be involved somehow either by playing or by bringing energy into the classroom.” He also provided advice for his students saying, “Be consistent, don’t give up, and celebrate the small victories.” Coach Ricabal leads by example and his students look up to him as a role model.  

  The students took Coach Ricabal’s approach and embraced it. Dayton Dymond, a student in Coach Ricabal’s class has said, “He is one of my favorite coaches and he is really fun.” Dayton has looked up to Coach Ricabal, and he has now been participating every day in the class. Coach Ricabal has made his class fun and exciting for his students. Dayton isn’t the only one to back up this claim, as Edrian Dopico has also come out and said, “What I enjoy most is how fun he is and the kids in the classroom.” The kids in the class have also helped Coach Ricabal successfully teach this class. Coach Ricabal stated, “I think it is a good group of kids together, like everyone wants to participate, so it is enjoyable for me to come in.” Coach Ricabal has made a positive impact on the students in his class, but they have also had a positive impact on him; which leads to a better all-around better class experience for all. 

  Coach Ricabal’s approach to teaching his volleyball class has been very successful and I wouldn’t expect it to stop. Students are engaged and are excited to come to his class and for that Coach Ricabal deserves a lot of credit. Teaching a brand-new class can’t be easy, but for Coach Ricabal he has done an amazing job. So, if you are ever interested in a gym class, volleyball with Coach Ricabal should be at the top of your list.