GAMES
RANKINGS
Fort Bend Austin's Tinsley Welker
DYNAMIC DISTRIBUTOR: Welker delivering for FB Austin in more ways than one // Powered by LOVB
Last season, Welker’s impact was undeniable. Named the District 21-6A Setter of the Year as a sophomore, she averaged an impressive 8.6 assists per set, totaling 1,150 assists over the course of the year. But her contributions don’t end there— with 400 digs, 238 kills, 61 aces, and 35 blocks, she demonstrates a versatility rare for any player, let alone one so young.
Welker’s development extends beyond the high school gym. Competing with the Houston Skyline 16 Royal club team, she faces some of the region’s best talent, sharpening the skills that make her one of the area’s most efficient and dependable setters.
Austin closed out the 2024 season with a strong 29-16 record and a second-place finish in District 21-6A.
The stars of 2025-26 Fort Bend Austin VolleyballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Although the Bulldogs faced a tough opening-round loss to Manvel in the playoffs, the experience has only fueled their determination heading into the new year.
As the 2025 campaign continues, a fair portion of the attention will fall on Welker to lead the Bulldogs’ offense and build on their success. While she has yet to announce a college commitment, her impressive résumé makes it clear that recruitment interest will intensify in the coming months.
When it comes to this game, much of the overall rhythm flows through the setter — and with Tinsley Welker orchestrating the play, Fort Bend Austin’s season promises to be one worth watching.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE 2025 FORT BEND ISD FALL MAGAZINE
...
Ridge Point's Taylor Johnson
SILENT KILLER: Ridge Point's Johnson expected to thrive at center stage in 2025 // Powered by LOVB
Johnson, a dynamic outside hitter, has long been a steady and quietly dominant presence for both Ridge Point and Houston Skyline 17 Royal — a club team loaded with Division I talent. She’s competed alongside high-profile players like SMU’s Kennedi Rogers and Nebraska commit Jayden Robinson, the latter of whom remains a teammate at Ridge Point and Skyline.
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Earlier this July, that same Skyline squad earned the No. 1 national ranking after winning the 17U Open Division title — a testament to the group’s elite depth and chemistry.
Even in a gym full of standouts, Johnson has drawn consistent praise from coaches for her completeness as a player. Whether it’s her clean ball control, ability to terminate out of system, or disciplined net play, she’s become a go-to option in crucial moments.
Her commitment to Iowa State, made official last October, was no surprise to those who’ve seen her growth firsthand.
In 2024, while splitting touches with several top hitters, Johnson still managed 188 kills, 25 blocks, and 31 digs. With a larger offensive role expected this fall, those numbers are likely to rise significantly.
The stars of 2025-26 Ridge Point VolleyballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Ridge Point finished last season 36-12, continuing a dominant stretch with their eighth straight district title before falling to Cinco Ranch in the third round of the playoffs. With Johnson and Robinson leading the charge, the Panthers have every reason to believe a State Final Four appearance —or better — is within reach in 2025.
It may have taken time for Johnson’s name to break through the noise, but now that it has, don’t expect it to fade anytime soon.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE 2025 FORT BEND ISD FALL MAGAZINE
...
