The 2026 spring athletic season in Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) featured CIF championships, league titles, record-breaking performances, and outstanding individual achievements. Student-athletes continued to demonstrate excellence, perseverance, and sportsmanship while representing their schools and communities with pride.

“Our student-athletes continue to excel in competition while developing leadership, teamwork, and resilience,” said Deputy Superintendent, Secondary Education Kerrie Torres. “Their accomplishments this spring reflect the strength of our athletic programs and the opportunities available to students throughout NMUSD.”

Here is a recap of this spring's highlights for Newport Harbor High School:

• Baseball - The Sailors also won the CIF State SoCal Regional Championship. finished the regular season at 19-9 and advanced to the CIF-SS Division 2 semifinals. Senior Gavin Guy was named to the All-CIF 1st Team and Sunset League Pitcher of the Year.
   
• Track & Field delivered exceptional postseason performances. Sophomore Morgan Starkenburg finished runner-up in the long jump at the CIF-SS Finals, while senior Natalie McCarty won the high jump and finished runner-up in the 300-meter hurdles. McCarty went on to place third in the 300-meter hurdles at the CIF State Championships, setting an Orange County record and breaking the Newport Harbor school record with a time of 41.74 seconds.
   
• Swimming captured the Sunset League girls team championship for the second consecutive year. Senior Connor Ohl was named Sunset League Swimmer of the Year and earned CIF-SS championships in both the 50- and 100-yard freestyle events.
   
• Boys Volleyball finished 23-9 and qualified for both the CIF-SS and CIF State playoffs. Seniors Mats Arens, Tyler Pence, and Alex Wick earned First Team All-Sunset League honors.
   
• Boys Tennis finished 11-6 and placed second in the Sunset League. The Sailors advanced to the CIF-SS Division 4 quarterfinals.
   
• Boys Lacrosse finished 12-4 and qualified for the CIF-SS playoffs for the first time in five years, advancing to the second round. Luke Holley, Ryan Palmer, Wesley Orange, Spencer Krieg, and Brody Wilson earned First Team All-Sunset League recognition.

The achievements celebrated this spring highlight the impact of athletic programs. From first-year participants to CIF champions, students had opportunities to challenge themselves, build meaningful connections, and represent their school at the highest levels of competition. These experiences continue to enrich campus life and support our commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for future success.