Fort Bend Austin looks to build on last season’s progress after finishing 22-21 and reaching the Bi-District Round of the playoffs.
The Bulldogs return a seasoned core in 2026, headlined by one of the area’s premier setters. Senior Tinsley Welker, an Arizona commit, has already etched her name into Fort Bend Austin history. She delivered 959 assists, 388 digs, and 236 kills a year ago, pushing her school-record career total to 3,226 assists as she enters her final season.
The supporting cast brings both production and stability. First-team all-district middle blocker Marzieh Syed returns after leading the team with 246 kills and 65 blocks, while libero Bella Garza, also a first-team selection, anchored the back row with 655 digs and 630 serve receptions.
Second-team all-district setter/outside hitter Josi Whitman adds versatility after posting 190 kills, 388 digs, and 344 serve receptions, and honorable mention outside hitter/defensive specialist Kinsey Lafon-Yowell provides additional depth with 170 kills and 238 digs.
With an elite setter steering the offense and a balanced group of returners across the lineup, Fort Bend Austin has the experience and firepower to take another step forward in 2026.
