The 'Stangs looking to be competitive
A lot of things are changing around Aldine.
Within the volleyball program, Elizabeth Durden takes over the program as they head into the 2019 season with the hopes of turning the tide with a new start.
"I told them that I want a clean slate," Durden said. "I don't know who was on varsity last year. The girls will tell you, but it doesn't matter. You must make my team. We're starting a new era. It's all about working hard and giving it your all."
Durden started her career coaching volleyball and soccer at Sam Houston High School in 1994, before going to her alma mater Houston Austin. After 11 years there, Durden decided to step away from coaching for a while as her children grew up.
Now, that two of children are in high school – one a freshman and the other a senior – Durden decided this was a good time to jump back into coaching.
"It's exciting, a little frightening, a lot of things have changed," Durden said. "I'm just ready to get back into it."
Durden takes over an Aldine program that went 1-11 in District 16-6A play and won two games total during the 2018 season.
The lone all-district returner from a year ago is Rebecca Espinosa as she enters her senior season with the Mustangs.
"I'm pumped for this season," Espinosa said. "I'm just ready to see what we have this year. I'm sure we're going to be better than we were."
As Durden heads into this season, there are a list of goals on her mind.
The first is to play as a team. Then after that, is to improve throughout the season and build for the future of the program.
"We're starting as an unknown and we're going to try to finish unforgettable," Durden said. "Trying to get us to that level where we are competing with everybody.
"I'm setting the goals high. I tell my kids we're going to believe. We're going to be better. I'd say district champs because that's the goal. You can aim high. If you land a little short, you're going to die trying to do what you wanted and you'll see the improvements."
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
