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COACHES' CORNER: Plano East's Perez looking for fourth straight playoff appearance

Matt Malatesta
Jul 28, 2026

Plano East has become one of the more consistent volleyball programs in North Texas, and head coach Sarah Perez has the Panthers positioned to chase a fourth consecutive playoff appearance in 2026.

Although Plano East enters a new district this season, the expectations inside the program remain unchanged. The Panthers have established a winning culture built on discipline, effort and team chemistry, and Perez expects her squad to compete for a postseason berth once again despite graduating several key contributors from last year's team.

The biggest constant is the return of Dakota Huynh, a two-time District Defensive MVP and one of the area's premier liberos. Huynh has built a reputation as the backbone of the Panthers' defense with her elite court awareness, relentless motor and ability to keep rallies alive. Her leadership and experience will be invaluable as Plano East works several new faces into the lineup.

Outside hitter Kyla Slaughter is another player poised for a breakout campaign. With increased opportunities this fall, Slaughter has the athleticism and offensive versatility to become one of the Panthers' go-to attackers. If she takes the next step, it will provide Plano East with another reliable scoring option to complement its outstanding defensive play.

Perez knows replacing experienced seniors won't happen overnight, but she believes the pieces are in place for another successful season.

"We have some great pieces, we just need to put them together," Perez said. "We need to play as a team, communicate and make great decisions. It's that simple."

That message has become the foundation of the Panthers' offseason. Plano East will rely on chemistry, communication and execution rather than individual star power as it navigates a challenging new district.

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