GAMES
RANKINGS
Westlake will surprise this season
DON'T SLEEP ON US: Westlake ready to turn heads in 2026; photo gallery
With a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent, Westlake believes it has all the pieces to compete for another championship-caliber season.
"Don't sleep on us. This group is ready to turn heads next season!" — Head Coach Miguel Saenz
The Maroons are back
THE 6-ROTATION: What will the Maroons do for an encore?
The Maroons will lean on a strong returning core featuring outside hitter Wesley McGinnis, libero Laven Blumoff and setter Nora Bettis. Together, they'll provide the leadership and experience needed as Austin looks to make another deep postseason run.
One player to keep an eye on is Kendall Anding. The powerful hitter has all the tools to emerge as one of the team's breakout stars this fall.
According to Woods, the keys to the season are playing together and lifting one another up.
"We graduated a lot, but we can be strong when we work as one team," Woods said. "We made it to the state championship last year and know what it feels like to play together and go far."
Woods added, "We want to focus on controlling what we can control and work as a team every time we step on the court.”
With championship experience, a united mindset and several talented playmakers returning, don't expect Austin to be far from the title conversation once again in 2026.