THE FINAL RUN: Friendswood Star Nadi’ya Shelby Reflects on Her Journey; Powered by LOVB
Friendswood Sr. OH Nadi'ya Shelby
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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