After the first round of districts have been completed, the volleyball team begins round two with a few games left until the season is over.
All 4 teams and their coaches work together tirelessly to make the program amazing. The Lady Westerners continue to represent the school for the brand starting with the head coach, Coach Leesman.
“Everyone has different roles in the school, so being part of a team is challenging, trying to bond and focus on our academics,” Coach Leesman said. “For varsity, there is a lot of talent on the team, but there is inexperience coupled with youth on the team. All that is left is to unlock everyone’s potential and have more fun for the rest of the season.”
With new players on Varsity experiencing something entirely different compared to the sub varsity teams.
“It is a fun opportunity and a different speed being on varsity for me,” Emery Stice, 11, said. “My favorite memory of the season so far is the preseason tournament in Denton. It was a fun time to get reps in, but also have time to bond with everyone.”
This year has a lot to show, including the difference with leadership roles compared to the past years of the program.
“The seniors have stepped up this year into being leaders.” Bella Valdez, 12, said.“It is heartbreaking that it’s my senior year. I’ve formed such great bonds with the girls that I know will continue after we graduate.”
While Junior Varsity, in and out of the gym, continue to get one percent better every day with Coach Gonzales.
“My team takes coaching well and works well with each other especially when they are down. They build each other up.”Coach Gonzales said.“My team has taught me to be more relaxed and easygoing.”
Despite not having the best season record so far, there are little things that make it memorable and enjoyable.
“Season has been pretty good so far because of this team and Coach G moving up with us from gold last year since she coached up last year.” Kali Vara, 10, said. “I can find a position that I enjoy and can stick to for the rest of the season and future seasons.”
As the season starts to end, JV can continue to grow by bonding together as a team and striving to play on the court.
“For the rest of the season, I want to continue to encourage each other and get to know each other.” Ava Cuevas, 10, said. “I would just like us to be more consistent and put our words into action.”
The Gold freshman team has Coach Casarez prepare for games and get better while learning about their strengths and qualities.
“My goal for my team is to prepare them physically and mentally for varsity and the upcoming years,” Coach Casarez said. “This team has taught me that there are more victories to achieve then just a win a game”
The freshman enter a new environment and step out of their comfort to play for the challenging program.
“High school volleyball is a faster pace than middle school,” Emily Lawrence, 9, said. “It’s more time dedicated to a game that we as a team all care about to play and have fun.”
With new experiences, there are hard parts that players, like Lynda Montoya, 9, have to adjust to.
“The hardest part of this season so far for me is getting along with different people and different personalities,” Lynda said. “It was difficult at first, but it’s getting better”
The Black team, which is also a freshman team, learns and continues to grow all together as it’s Coach Martinez first year with this program along with the freshman.
“It had been a challenge and a slow learning process coming from a small school and coaching 15 girls.” Coach Martinez said. “From coaching Black, they have taught me to be patient.”
Players, like Paige Crawford, 9, try new things from things they have never done before.
“This season is going well so far for me because I’ve never been a libero before and I’m learning how to be a leader on the court,” Paige said.
The remaining time they have to play together on the court, they will improve and play their hardest.
“For the rest of the season, I want to talk more and get more consistent. ,” Lexi Wood, 9, said.
These Lady Westerners keep working diligently, days in and out of the gym for the volleyball program.
“It’s all about the brand and earning it everyday,” Coach Leesman said.