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THE FINAL RUN: Friendswood Star Nadi’ya Shelby Reflects on Her Journey; Powered by LOVB
21 Jul, 2025
Friendswood Sr. OH Nadi'ya Shelby
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
For the past three season, Nadi'ya Shelby has been the face of Friendswood Volleyball -- a dominant force on the court, a leader in the locker room, and a name that resonates across the Texas volleyball scene.
Now, as she enters her senior year, Shelby is filled with emotion.
“It’s bittersweet and exciting,” she said. “I’ve been dreaming of my senior year since I got into high school. But now that it’s here... it’s kind of sad. This is our last run. The last time we’ll all be together. We want to make it memorable.”
The Mustangs went undefeated in district play last season and made it all the way to the Regional Final, falling just short of the State Tournament. In 2025, they’re not settling for anything less than history.
“We have a lot more to accomplish,” Shelby said. “Of course winning State is the big goal, but for me, it’s also about continuing to build relationships along the way. That’s what really matters.”
The stars of 2025-26 Friendswood VolleyballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
A University of Florida-commit, Shelby has already carved her name into Friendswood’s history books. Her legacy is secure—but she’s not done yet.
“I want to go out on top,” she said. “That would be the perfect ending.”
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VYPE Q&A WITH NADI’YA SHELBY
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
VYPE: Your brothers played college football and even reached the NFL. What did you learn from watching their journeys?
SHELBY: "I went on some of their official visits, and those experiences showed me what it’s like to be on a college campus out of state. Because of that, I knew I wouldn’t be intimidated about leaving home. I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone."
VYPE: Who’s been the most influential person in your life?
SHELBY: "Definitely my parents. They always told me to set goals and helped keep me on track. They’ve played such a huge role in everything I’ve accomplished."
VYPE: How do you think people see you outside of volleyball?
SHELBY: "I know people recognize me for volleyball, but I think I’m more than that. I’d say I’m a comfort person. I want to be someone people can come to for anything—on or off the court. I try to be a great teammate and friend, someone who lifts others up."
VYPE: What drew you to Florida?
SHELBY: "The Sunshine State is the best—come on! But really, campus life is amazing, and I feel like the athletes there are really supported both physically and mentally. I’m just super excited about the future."
VYPE: NIL is changing the game. What brands would you love to represent?
SHELBY: "I love Alo—their gear is amazing. And I’d definitely love to rep Main Squeeze Juice Co. That would be perfect."
VYPE: Any athletes you look up to?
SHELBY: "(Two-time Olympian) Jordan Thompson. I feel like our vibes are really similar. I follow her social media and love how she shows that there’s more to life than just your sport. She’s inspiring."
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OAK RIDGE MADE A RUN IN 2024 TO THE REGIONAL SEMIFINALS AND FINISHED THE YEAR 35-12 OVERALL.
Five starters return for Tommie Sledge, who enters her 16th season at the helm of the program. District 13-6A Blocker of the Year Micah Rusher is back in the huddle after racking up 119 blocks and chipped in 205 kills.
First-team, all-district selections Leila Ceaser (312 kills, 364 digs) and Gaby Santiago (390 kills, 517 digs) are back as well for Oak Ridge. Santiago has been first-team, all-district each season of her high school career.
Also returning is Jade Clay, who was second-team, all-district. Clay had 221 kills and 86 blocks in 2024.
Keys to success for Sledge’s team in 2025 surrounds focusing on team and program unity in the offseason and getting great leadership from her returners.
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IT IS TIME TO “PUT IN THE WORK” AT MANVEL. THAT IS THE MAVERICKS MOTTO ENTERING THE 2025 SEASON, WHICH WILL BE THE 10TH UNDER HEAD COACH SUSAN KENNEDY.
Manvel went 30-14 a year ago and reached the Regional Semifinals before bowing out of the playoffs.
Four starters return for Kennedy, including Louisiana Tech-commit Kaycee Pennie (263 kills, 40 blocks) and University of Texas Rio
Grande Valley-commit Jasmyn Walker (34 blocks). First-team, all-district selection Nevaeh English (392 kills) is back along with second-team libero Emerson Chang (400 digs).
Another name to watch is second-team, all-district defensive specialist Sammy Guikema (308 digs). A new setter will have to step up for Manvel as the Mavericks say goodbye to Kenedy Massie (Prairie View A&M-signee).
Keys tosuccess for Kennedy’s team include having quality ball control, the four-year letter winners being great leaders and staying healthy.
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