Beyond the Net: Reaching State Finals

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS—For the first time in Hornet History, the Lady Hornet Volleyball team won the Semi-Final round against College Station this past Tuesday, November 19. In addition to their historic successes, the team will be facing McKinney North in the UIL 5A Division 1 Volleyball State Championship Tournament this Saturday, November 23 in San Antonio, TX. 

“It’s hard to believe. We always say that the goal is to make it to state,” Senior Talia Rodriguez said. “I’m extremely proud of all the girls for fighting hard each game and showing up mentally and physically each practice.”

The road to state wasn’t simple for the Lady Hornets, as any other team, they faced challenges early on, including building chemistry amongst the team on and off the court.

“[In the beginning, we didn’t have a team connection,] and we weren’t really playing like a team, [we were playing more like individuals,]” Sophomore Alyssa Thornton said. “I feel like at the end of the season we have really grown as a team.” 

The team’s successes are not only credited to their hard work but also the dedication and support of their coaches: Coaches Wallace, Williams-Bacy, Rodriguez, and Akenhead, who helped push the team past their limits throughout the season. 

“[One of] our coach[es] has been saying she’s been praying, staying up late at night, and working on drills and our rotations making sure that we put the parts together we need to be successful,” Sophomore Addison Mayo said. 

When they aren’t on the court, the team’s bonding and rituals have strengthened their unity. From pre-game dance parties, eating food, prayers, and to superstitions of the same socks or hair ties, small gestures keep the team focused. 

“Before each playoff game we eat at Jason’s deli,” Rodriguez said. “And after we have our 30 minute practice before the game we go in the locker room and listen to music and dance to get hyped up.” 

As the team prepares to further make history at the state championship, they reflect on their individual growth and collective journey, as they share these experiences bringing them closer together.

“It feels like such an honor because it is my first year on varsity,” Senior Ashby McCracken said. “To be making history as a first-time varsity athlete for volleyball [feels] really amazing.”

Regardless of Saturday’s outcome, the Lady Hornets have already cemented their legacy as the first team in Flour Bluff history to make it this far. Their historic season has inspired not only the school, but the community and aspiring athletes who look up to them as role models. 

“I’d tell younger players to stay dedicated and never give up, even when it feels hard,” Croft said. “Success comes from loving what you do and putting in the effort day after day.”

The team’s journey to state is more than a milestone, but a tremendous accomplishment that will be remembered in the Flour Bluff community for years to come. Because of their commitment, unity, and determination, they have inspired all those around them who have supported them from the beginning, which serves as a powerful example of what perseverance truly means.

“It feels incredible to be part of something so historic. We’ve worked so hard all season, and knowing that we’ve made a lasting mark on our school’s legacy is beyond rewarding,” Croft said. “It’s a mix of pride, excitement, and just pure joy for all the effort we’ve put in as a team.”