Tooele High Welcomes New Boys Volleyball Coach

Porter Staten takes over Buffaloes program ahead of 2026 season

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Volleyball has been a part of Ian Staten's life for many years. He grew up playing for his mom in Tooele and continued to become an assistant coach two years ago on Tooele's club team. Now he is the first year head coach for the Tooele High School boys team, taking over the program ahead of the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Volleyball is a sport that requires strong teamwork and communication, and Porter Staten is focused on building that trust and unity within the Tooele High boys volleyball team. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of both athletic performance and academic discipline.

The details

Prior to taking the job at Tooele, Staten played college soccer at Weber State. After a season-ending injury sidelined him, and subsequently ended his career, he shifted his focus on volleyball and the team has already shown improvement under his leadership. Staten creates a high energy and trusting environment, stressing the importance of 'trust your teammates, everyone has a job and when that job is done correctly there's success.'

  • Porter Staten is the first year head coach for the Tooele High School boys volleyball team ahead of the 2026 season.
  • The Buffaloes lost their season-opener against the Highland Rams, but bounced back to win their next two games, including a 3-2 victory over the Grantsville Cowboys.

The players

Ian Staten

Staten grew up playing volleyball for his mom in Tooele and became an assistant coach two years ago on Tooele's club team. He is now the first year head coach for the Tooele High School boys volleyball team.

Zander Nielson

Sophomore on the Tooele High boys volleyball team.

Marcus Malmgren

Senior on the Tooele High boys volleyball team.

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What they’re saying

“I help student athletes practice discipline in the classroom, and on the court, while growing their love for the game and increasing team unity.”

— Porter Staten, Head Coach (tooeleonline.com)

“I am really happy with the early performance by our team and hope that they will continue their success.”

— Porter Staten, Head Coach (tooeleonline.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.