Baytown Sterling was on the cusp of being on top last year.
In 2018, the Rangers were two wins away from being District 21-6A Champions. Because of that, they made it into the playoffs for a second-straight season.
Now, what will they do for an encore?
Baytown Sterling brings back five first-team, all-district selections; two postseason award winners and a majority of its offensive and defensive firepower. The Rangers are a clear contender for a district title and deep playoff run.
"My starting lineup is pretty solid," Sterling coach Candace Southall said. "We are definitely working on building the chemistry, but I'm really excited to see what this year built for us for next year."
Kayla Jones and Bailee St. Romain return as two of the main centerpieces for the team.
Jones was the District 21-6A Defensive Player of the Year and was named first-team, all-district. Jones finished the year with 379 digs and 68 assists.
"She plays a huge role in our defense and our offense for that matter, just setting it up," Southall said. "She works hard and she's a key component to our team."
St. Romain earned the District 21-6A Newcomer of the Year honors and a first-team, all-district nod as well. She finished with 267 kills and 104 digs.
"She came from being initially a role player to one of our top offensive players," Southall said. "She's grown tremendously as a player and she's fearless in every aspect of the game."
Other top returners include Jasmine Moore (374 kills, 276 digs and 58 aces), Kaitlyn Stork (177 kills, 129 digs and 31 aces) and Brooke Benoit, who were all named first-team, all-district.
Also back is second-team, all- district selection Alex Lee (253 assists and 130 digs).
Entering her fourth season at Baytown Sterling, Southall (74-31) believes this team is loaded and ready to roll.
"We have depth," Southall said. "So, I think this season is mostly about making sure everyone is in the right spot. The talent is there. We just have to make sure we set up an offense that is conducive, so that everybody playing next to each other is well-rounded.
"Having such significant depth, my hope is that this is the team that can take us further than where we've been since I've been here."
VYPE Volleyball fans, if you can not find the printed magazine at any of our partners pick up locations check out our VYPE Shop to get a copy delivered to your door!