BUMP, SET, SPIKE: The Private School Dark Horses

These teams may win it all or just slide into the playoffs in that last slot. They are the Dark Horses for a reason. Each of these squads has the potential to make that title run, but either they are having to replace a ton of talent gone to graduation or are super young. Check out who the Dark Horses are heading into this fall!

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John Cooper School Dragons (Finished 5th in the SPC Tourney)

DRAGONS BREATHING FIRE IN 2019

The Dragons ran the table in the consolation bracket of the Southwest Preparatory Conference tournament, claiming fifth place. While their leader and all-SPC selection Abby Frazier has graduated, there are several studs ready to step up. Running the offense will be Lauren Harkness as the setter. On the outside will be Anna Claire Adam and Hailey Huettel, while Amaya Harrell will take care of the middle. The defense will be led by junior Laura Weatherford as the defensive specialist. Freshman Rivers Kolesar could also be a game-changer in the middle for coach Ray Hedden. Episcopal and St. John's will get the Dragons ready for postseason play during the regular season, but it's up to the girls to see where they can take it come tourney time.

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Katy St. John XXIII Lions (Reached Second Round of TAPPS 6A Playoffs)

READY TO ROAR

The Lions of Katy St. John XXIII reached the second round of the TAPPS postseason and have high expectations entering the 2019 season under the direction of new coach Preston Smith. Smith comes over from Fort Bend Christian Academy. The straw that stirs the drink is Calli Collins, a second-team, all-stater in volleyball. Collins is also a star on the softball field. Also, back in the mix are Lauren Witt, Dana Sheehan and Taylor Morello, who will need to have huge seasons to improve on last year. Blair Moreland is the junior setter and Bridget Thompson is a solid outside. Getting valuable varsity experience last year were sophomores Isabella Eguia and Sophie IbanezFlores. They should take huge strides with a varsity and summer select season under their belts.

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