Brazoswood Pitcher Peyton Tanner
THE PLAYMAKERS: Baseball, softball on tap for Players of the Week powered by UTMB Health
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers, powered by UTMB Health, where we highlight five standouts who round the bases, drive in runs and throw some heat this Spring. Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Week!
Cooper Williams, Alvin HS Baseball (Junior-LHP)
Ranked in the Top 10 collegiate baseball prospects of the Five Tool 2024 Class, Williams has been ridiculously effective for the Yellowjackets bullpen. The 6-foot-4 junior can already throw a fastball in the low 90s (MPH), and his ceiling keeps rising. Williams has committed to Texas A&M and is anticipated to keep bringing the heat for Alvin High this Spring.
Brett Smajstrla, Pearland Baseball (Senior-OF)
Senior OF Brett Smajstrla played a significant role in Pearland advancing to the Regional Finals in last season’s UIL State playoffs. This year should be no different, as he will be an anchor in the outfield while racking up the hits at the plate. The Sam Houston State-commit is destined for a career year with hopes of pushing his team further into the postseason.
Peyton Tanner, Brazoswood Softball (Junior-Pitcher)
A hotshot pitcher for Brazoswood, junior Peyton Tanner is ranked 8th in the nation for her tremendous skill. After advancing to the Regionals Semifinals last season, Tanner and the Buccaneers will be as dangerous as ever. Already committed to Tennessee, this is a top-tier player to look out for.
Kyeler Thompson, Santa Fe Baseball (Senior-SS/CF)
Senior Kyeler Thompson has proven to be a talented athlete in his years at Santa Fe High. Being a multi-sport athlete playing DB during football season, Thompson is prepared to help lead his team to another postseason run. Although he has yet to commit to a university, this Spring could prove to be his best, leading to several college offers.
Anna Soles, Clear Springs Softball (Senior-LHP)
Kansas softball-commit senior Anna Soles will look to build upon last season’s success in which she and the Chargers earned a district title on their way to a Regional Semifinals appearance. This lefty will be a key factor in the success of Clear Springs when they compete in a challenging division this Spring.
THE PLAYMAKERS; Legends of the Fall powered by UTMB Health
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers, powered by UTMB Health, where we highlight five standouts who stole the headlines in the fall or will make news this winter. Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Fall.
Anthony Sury, Brazoswood, Water Polo
Anthony Sury being awarded the UIL Conference 6A MVP Award
Photo acquired via Twitter @TheWetWood
Brazoswood High School claimed the first-ever UIL State Championship in Water Polo, which was achieved, in no small part, due to the efforts of senior Anthony Sury. Following his outstanding performance during the regular season and state playoff, he was named the Conference 6A MVP with 6 goals.
Jonah Williams, Galveston Ball, Football
Photo acquired via Twitter @JonahW409
Galveston Ball’s defense was powered by the ball-hawking ability of sophomore DB Jonah Williams, ushering them to an undefeated District Championship season. Following his second year for the Tornadoes, in which, he became the District 9-5A MVP, Williams’ potential will only increase. College offers are sure to start rolling in, come next Fall.
Nadi'ya Shelby, Friendswood, Volleyball
Photo acquired via Twitter @nadiyashelby
Friendswood’s impressive volleyball team, which advanced to the Regional Quarterfinals this Fall, was bolstered by the performance of freshman OH Nadi’ya Shelby, earning her District 18-5A Newcomer of the Year honors. With numerous players graduating this year, Friendswood can remain optimistic, heading into next season, as Shelby will be a team leader for years to come.
Maxwell Williams, Clear Falls, Football
Photo acquired via Twitter @max_williams22
Clear Falls had themselves a star on their roster, becoming District Champs, with Williams making impacts on all three phases of the game, by playing Safety, WR, and Kick/Punt-Returner. Williams’ senior year efforts unanimously earned him District 24-6A MVP, as well as First-Team All-District, and First-Team All-Galveston defensive and utility player honors. His football career will continue, following his commitment to the US Naval Academy.
Marcus Cantu, Lutheran South Academy, Football
Lutheran South Academy is enjoying the talent of their young multi-athlete star, Marcus Cantu. During his freshman campaign, the young QB led the team to a playoff berth and earned Offensive MVP honors. Furthermore, Cantu’s athleticism is being recognized, considering he is already committed to play baseball for the University of Texas, once he graduates in 2026.
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