Watch below as Matt talks with Stratford Head Football Coach Todd Rankin:
Alief Taylor's Omotola Oguns
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
This fall, Oguns is among the handful of returners expected to help push the program forward — not just with her play, but with the experience and perspective she’s accumulated in the short span of her career.
“In order for us to see that kind of success again, it’s going to require a similar level of connection that we still have, if not more so,” she said. “We’re already really close with each other, so now it’s just about how we work out the kinks, stay in tune, and build on that connection.”
2025-26 Alief Taylor VolleyballJamey Wright (VYPE)
That team-first mindset has been a major part of Oguns’ development. She cites confidence as the area where she’s grown most — not just in her individual ability, but in how she understands the dynamics of the game and what drives team performance.
“Coming into the game, I didn’t always have that level of assurance in my ability that I do now,” Oguns said. “The reason I’ve been able to address that, I think, relates to the chemistry with my teammates and figuring out what makes each of us click.”
Oguns’ foundation extends beyond the court. Her older sister, Oluwabusola Oguns — a former Taylor volleyball player now attending Texas State University — remains a steady influence in her life.
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
“After God, I’d definitely say that my sister has been one of the more impactful figures for me,” she said. “Even after the two years we spent here together, she’s still giving me advice when it comes to classes and how to balance volleyball with my education and social life. Her experience has become mine, in a way, and that’s not something I take lightly.”
It’s also how she earned her nickname, “Lowercase.” During their overlapping time at Taylor, the pair was known as “Mini-O” and “Big O,” a reference to the first letter of their names. Eventually, the shorthand evolved into something uniquely hers — a symbol of both connection and individuality.
When she’s not on the court, Oguns competes in the shot put during track season and stays sharp by bingeing her favorite shows — from Avatar: The Last Airbender to Attack on Titan.
Heading into her final season, Oguns brings the kind of perspective that can’t be coached — earned over time, shaped by family, and sharpened by the game itself.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE ALIEF ISD 2025 FALL MAGAZINE
Fort Bend Marshall's Kaeden "KK" Johnson
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
While Johnson’s skillset allows him to line up virtually anywhere on the field, the senior will return under center as the starting quarterback this fall. In 2024, he threw for over 2,100 yards and 25 touchdowns, adding 571 rushing yards and six scores on the ground. His dual-threat capability earned him first-team, all-district honors and solidified his reputation as a genuine offensive weapon.
Teamwise, Marshall compiled a strong 10-3 record in their last campaign, finishing third in the ultra-competitive District 9-5A
Division II—trailing only State Champion Randle and Regional Finalist Iowa Colony. A third-round playoff loss to Iowa Colony ended the Buffs’ postseason run, but it also left the group hungry for more.
The stars of 2025-26 Fort Bend Marshall FootballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
With a seasoned leader like Johnson back at the helm, expectations around the Buffalos are understandably high. They’ll hope to channel the spirit of their 2019 squad, which reached the UIL State Final in Arlington, but this year’s path will require its own identity—one built on resilience, execution, and the leadership of players like Johnson.
For Johnson, this final chapter in his high school career isn’t just about chasing wins. It’s a chance to leave a lasting imprint on a program that has shaped him, while preparing for the next level. If his track record is any indication, both he—and Fort Bend Marshall—are ready for the moment.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE 2025 FORT BEND ISD FALL MAGAZINE
Alief Hastings' Xavier Obiero-Hyter
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
The Bears finished 3–7 last season, just outside the playoff picture, in what was head coach Michael Carter’s first year at the helm. With a new district and new expectations, growing pains were inevitable—but Obiero-Hyter sees promise in how the team has responded.
2025-26 Alief Hastings FootballJamey Wright (VYPE)
“Sure, we had some ups and downs last year,” he said. “But that’s to be expected in a new district and with a new coach. So, it’s going to be really important that everyone buys into the culture that Coach Carter has brought, and drive home that belief. We have the skill, so all that’s needed for us to reach that next point is to get that next win.”
That veteran insight didn’t come easy. As a freshman and sophomore, Obiero-Hyter was thrown into the starting lineup following an injury on the offensive line—an early challenge that forced him to learn on the fly and sharpen his game quickly.
“Because of that, I feel that I’ve become more well-rounded and knowledgeable as a player up to this point,” he said.
A versatile interior lineman who can play either guard or center, Obiero-Hyter approaches his role with intention and self-discipline. He patterns his game after NFL All-Pro Tristan Wirfs (Tampa Bay), known for his technique, strength, and professionalism—traits Obiero-Hyter strives to emulate every time he steps on the field.
His journey into football wasn’t always clear-cut. Like many kids, he tried different sports before zeroing in on the one that sparked a deeper ambition.
Jamey Wright (VYPE)
“I began to really invest myself because I noticed that this could take me somewhere,” he said. “I’d go to workouts by myself, and work drills with trainers—anything that could help turn that dream into reality.”
At the heart of that drive is family.
“My Mom, my Dad, and my family as a whole— even though we didn’t have much, they’ve always been there and supported me through everything. Their impact on my life has helped lead me towards a scholarship, and I hope to return the favor someday.”
For Hastings to push into playoff contention in 2025, it’ll take buy-in, execution—and the kind of steady leadership Obiero-Hyter has subtly built his name on.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE ALIEF ISD 2025 FALL MAGAZINE
TRENDING
GAMES
Join the #VYPETEAM
Get up to date news from all over the country!
FROM THE WEB
