Time and time again, the gym seats are packed with eager spectators. Students fill the stands, staying after school late at night to watch the action. They bring homemade signs and cheer for the team that dominates the court, the most successful sports team at Austin High. The Austin High Girls’ Volleyball team is well on track for yet another successful season, and their skill and achievement make spectating the volleyball game an important part of Austin High culture.
Recent clean sweeps against schools such as Del Valle, Akins, and Lake Travis illustrate just how successful the team is. Players work together to support one another, and through a network of silent communication of plays, savage blocking, and impressive spikes, the team is able to bring home win after win. An impressive display of talent and teamwork is what has brought the team to be ranked 1st in the district and 3rd in the state. Skilled players who often command the court are Riley Malloy, Camille Presley, Maggie McCarrol, and Jenna Tello. Many of these players are already committed to continue their volleyball career through college.
So far, our lady Maroons have been named district champs, maintaining a high 15 and 1 game streak. Now, they are on the path to pursue state championships. They could go as far as the final championship game on November 21st, or drop out earlier. It is important for the student body to show support and pack the stands as the team progresses and continues to succeed.
One of the powerful motivators behind this team is Coach Woods, a tough but supportive leader that works behind the scenes to push the team towards success. Woods’ coaching philosophy includes “trying to encourage the girls and bring the best out of them, push them beyond what they’re capable of doing.” The teams’ success relies not only on individual motivation and talent but also team chemistry. Woods encourages players to “[work] on playing as a team throughout the entire match, and stick together in the highs and the lows.” Support from each other and coaches helps the players to persevere through more difficult games and continue to learn from each experience.
Celebration is an important part of the process, making sure each player is proud of their accomplishments and grit. Recently, the team celebrated with an ice cream party to celebrate a clean 25-0 win. “This season is going great! The girls are working hard [and] are improving at a rate that I am happy with,” Coach Woods explains. While staying focused and controlling excitement keeps the team “always ready for the next point,” it is equally important to celebrate and recognize successes.
The next section of the team’s journey is to state, and the Austin High student body will be there to support at every step of the way. The girls volleyball team remains one of the most victorious teams at Austin High, and will continue to bring back accomplishments and spread pride across the Maroon community.
College commit:
Maggie McCarroll – (Sr) Arkansas
Riley Malloy – (Sr) University of Southern California
Camille Presley – (Jr) Texas
Laven Blumoff – (Jr) University of Denver
Charlotte Sigler – (Sr) Grinnell College
