Denton Ryan Head Coach Dave Henigan and players celebrate state title
In the comments of Henigan's tweet, Ray shared photos of the head coach modeling the ring with the hashtag "#HomeOfChampions".
It's safe to say that the Ryan Raiders have a nice little piece of swag on the way in the near future. The team earned the ring and the state title back in January with a 59-14 victory over Cedar Park in the Class 5A Division I matchup.
Thursday, that influence earned her national recognition: the junior setter was named the 2025-2026 Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year, selected from more than half a million candidates.
The Texas A&M-commit is widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier setters — a fact Byron Nelson head coach Brianne Groth highlighted after the Bobcats claimed their second consecutive UIL 6A Division I state title last November. Byron Nelson swept Dawson to finish a perfect 42-0 season, with Peterson at the center of it all.
Photo taken by: Matthew Ogle (VYPE)
The moment carried extra significance when three-time Olympic medalist and former Gatorade National Volleyball Player of the Year April Ross surprised Peterson at school, presenting the award in front of her teammates, family, and friends.
Watching her on the court, the distinction is easy to understand. Peterson’s technique, court vision, and relentless energy make her the linchpin of a program. She orchestrates the offense with precision, feeding top-tier talent like Washington-bound Kylie Kleckner and Rice signee Ashlyn “AJ” Seay.
In 2025, Peterson totaled nearly 1,500 assists and 300 digs, cementing Byron Nelson’s status as the indisputable No. 1 team in the country. More than stats, her leadership, poise, and intensity set the tone for the team.
For Peterson, the award is recognition — but also a reminder: she’s not just running the court, she’s setting the standard.
Join the #VYPETEAM
Get up to date news from all over the country!
