A Small School's Big Dream
Rolling Hills Prep, a modest campus nestled in the foothills of Tujunga, California, entered the 2026 baseball season with just 135 students and a roster of ten players. The team faced a daunting schedule, playing on borrowed fields and without a dedicated home diamond.
The Sarner family tragedy cast a shadow over the season when Danny Sarner, the team's longtime photographer and father of former players Isaac and Max Sarner, was killed in a plane crash on Catalina Island in April. His loss resonated deeply, but the players rallied around the memory of their mentor.
Coach Arsenio Hernandez, who took over mid‑season after Sam Lopez stepped down, emphasized that the team's strength lay not in numbers but in unity. "We may have only ten arms on the mound, but we have a community that refuses to quit," he said.
From 4‑10 to Playoff Heroes
Despite opening the season at 4‑10, the squad clawed its way into the CIF Southern Section Division 9 playoffs, defeating Lucerne Valley 18‑5, Ambassador Christian 11‑3 and Bethel Christian 10‑1. A stunning 5‑3 upset over Temecula Prep secured a spot in the championship game.
Although the championship slipped away, the team earned a berth in the regional playoffs, where they fell 11‑2 to Verdugo Hills. Senior catcher Alex Hernandez, who will continue his career at Hawaii Pacific University, was among the standout performers.
Coach Hernandez reflected on the journey, praising the resilience of his players and the unwavering support of parents, alumni and local fans. "This season will be remembered for how we came together," he said.