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THE YOUTH MOVEMENT: The "Fab Four" Freshmen at John Cooper School
The John Cooper School volleyball program is experiencing a resurgence this fall under the guidance of first-year head coach Rachel Stallman.
With a fresh voice on the sidelines and renewed energy in the gym, the Dragons are quickly becoming a team to watch in the private school ranks. A major reason for the turnaround has been the immediate impact of the “Fab Four” freshmen — Riley Gottsman, Reagan Cooksen, Allanah Maimone, and Dylan Wilson. Despite their youth, the group has shown poise, skill, and confidence well beyond their years, giving Stallman a versatile core to build around for the future. Each has carved out a role on the floor, and together they’ve sparked a new level of competitiveness within the program.
That spark is being fueled by the team’s senior leadership, which has embraced the newcomers and provided the steady presence necessary to balance the roster. The combination of veteran experience and youthful enthusiasm has created the type of chemistry Stallman envisioned when she took over the program.
VYPE’s Matt Malatesta caught up with the four freshman standouts to learn more about their journey, their personalities, and what drives them to succeed. One thing is clear — the Dragons’ foundation is strong, and the future looks bright at John Cooper.
THE BOSS: Stallman takes over John Cooper School volleyball with an aggressive game plan
The John Cooper School volleyball program is turning the page with the arrival of Rachel Stallman as its new head coach.
Stallman brings a wealth of experience from both the college and club ranks, where she built a reputation for player development, high-energy leadership, and a passion for the game. Now, she looks to channel that expertise into a Dragons program eager to take the next step.
Stallman inherits a roster that balances emerging young talent with seasoned senior leadership, a combination that could make the Dragons one of the more intriguing private school programs in Greater Houston.
Her focus is on instilling a culture of competitiveness and accountability, while also creating an environment where players can grow both on and off the court. With 2025 on the horizon, expectations are high.
The Dragons are aiming not only to compete in a challenging conference but to make noise in the postseason as well. Stallman’s fresh perspective and proven ability to maximize her roster’s potential could be the spark that pushes John Cooper to new heights.
For the Dragons community, there’s a new sense of excitement — and plenty of reasons to believe the best is yet to come.