Heritage grad Perez to coach volleyball at River

Moe Perez, a 2004 graduate of Heritage High School, is the new volleyball coach at Columbia River. Perez takes over for Dana Blair, who resigned following the 2009 campaign — her 23rd season as head coach.

“A great tradition, with great support,” Perez said of the program. “I feel very blessed to be stepping into this position. I have nothing but respect for Dana and what she’s done for this program. There’s definitely a passion for Columbia River volleyball, and I’m definitely proud to be part of it.”

Blair’s teams made it to the state tournament 15 times, winning state championships in 1991 and 2000.

“I would not have traded any moment of the things we did there,” Blair said. “So many memories and so many positive experiences.”

She also expects Perez to do great things at River, too. Perez played at Washington State. Last year, she coached at the Cal State Monterey Bay. She will teach English at River, as well as coach the Chieftains.

Perez also is putting on a volleyball clinic for setters July 19-22 at Columbia River. The Elite Setting Academy costs $100. Moe’s sister, Joelle Perez, is also coaching. Joelle is about to enter her senior year at Seattle Pacific University. For information on the clinic, go to river.vansd.org and click on sports information and links, or contact Moe Perez at 360-601-4877.