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THE RANKINGS: Boatman is the headliner for No. 13 Bridgeland Bears
BRIDGELAND WERE WINNERS OF 30 MATCHES IN 2024, WHICH PUSHED THEM INTO THE AREA ROUND OF THE PLAYOFFS.
Five starters return for ninth-year coach Verena Khalil (225-70 at Bridgeland).
Kennedy Boatman (East Tennessee State University-commit) was the District 16-6A co-Newcomer of the Year and first-team, all-district pick after racking up 816 assists in 2024.
First-team, all-district pick Justice Rachal will be a weapon for the Bears on the outside after registering 443 kills a year ago. Second-teamer Alexis Couch had 410 digs.
Other key returners include Central Washington University-commit Brooklyn Barrow. The middle blocker had 183 kills and 52 blocks in 2022.
Also watch for East Texas Baptist-commit Allison Sims.
Keys to success for Khalil’s squad include a fast offense, ability to terminate with different shots and a defense that fights to keep balls alive.
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BEAR DOWN: Bridgeland Are Among The Contenders In 2025
This past spring marked a significant milestone for Bridgeland, as the Bears advanced to the Regional Final for the first time since becoming a varsity program in the 2018-2019 school year. From the outset, coach Paul Orlando and his staff have cultivated a winning mentality, one that has now elevated the Bears to “State Contender” status.
This momentum is expected to carry into 2025. During their historic run, Bridgeland was only stopped by eventual State Champion Tomball. With the new divisional structure of the UIL playoffs, the Bears are well-positioned for future success, especially with a talented roster returning to the diamond.
On the mound, Christopher Gutierrez (UTSA commit) and Josh Livingston (second-team, all-district) lead a strong pitching staff. In the field, first-teamers Weston Riddle (Sr. IF) and Caleb Simons (Jr. OF), along with Northwestern State-commit Austin Glasscock (Sr. 1B/ LHP), bring veteran experience.
Caden Hinze (second team) and Trey Allen (honorable mention) also return, providing depth across multiple positions. With a mix of established talent and promising players, Bridgeland is well-composed to build on last year’s success and remain a formidable force.