Friendswood enjoyed a banner season in 2025, going 37-10 en route to the UIL State Semifinals and further cementing its place among the state’s elite programs. While generational talent Nadi'ya Shelby has moved on to the University of Florida, along with Caroline Adams (US Naval Academy) and Haley Patton (North Dakota), the cupboard is far from bare for coach Sarah Paulk.
At the forefront is Boise State (Beach Volleyball) commit Elaina Holtvluwer and Sarah Grace Hickl (SFA)—both outside hitters and first-team all-district selections a season ago—while younger sister Ashley Adams (Liberty commit), another first-teamer, steps in to direct the offense from the setter position. Senior Ellie Leitko will stabilize the middle for the Mustangs after being named District 20-5A Blocker of the Year.
“We have had three four-year starters graduate, so we need to establish our team ‘us’,” Paulk said. “We return great setting and middles, but will have to figure out who will pass for us.”
With a strong foundation returning and several players ready to assume larger responsibilities, Friendswood is well-equipped to remain a serious threat in 2026.
