For decades, Thacher’s Voit Gym has hosted girls' basketball teams that have enjoyed success by any standard—including league titles and a coveted CIF Championship. That said, the program has always gauged its sense of achievement on teaching sound fundamentals, creating tight-knit teams, and focusing on hard work, sportsmanship, and resilience in the face of tough obstacles. The players enjoy the benefits of a committed school community that fills the gym with energy, excitement, and strong support.  

 

Perennial playoff contenders, the Toads typically play a challenging schedule in the competitive Tri-Valley League. Those back-and-forth contests harden the club and properly prepare them for the postseason. In fact, the Toads secured a thrilling CIF playoff win during the 2025 campaign when they came back from a 10-point, second-half deficit. Many players have received all-league accolades and some have gone on to play at the next level, such as Pomona-Pitzer in more recent times.

About Coach Ortiz:
With 12 years of coaching experience, Coach Ortiz enters his 10th season on the varsity sideline and his 5th year as a head girls basketball coach. Before joining Thacher, he led the girls varsity program at Asheville School for four seasons, guiding the team to three state playoff appearances during that span. A lifelong student of the game, Coach Ortiz is passionate not only about developing basketball skills but also about fostering a team culture where players feel motivated, supported, and excited to grow - both individually and together. At Thacher, his vision for the program centers on establishing a strong defensive identity, competing with intensity, and emphasizing the “second scoreboard”- a focus on character, effort, and team-first mentality. Coach Ortiz is committed to helping each athlete build confidence on and off the court, believing that the true success in a season comes from the team's commitment to giving their best effort, building a culture they’re proud to be part of, and competing to the fullest of their potential.