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2021-22 Houston Christian Softball
Justin Hartojo (VYPE)
Returning as the coach of the Mustangs, Cassidy Bowen anticipates her team to build upon last season’s successes in order to make a push in the SPC this Spring.
“I expect our team to now be a year older and a year stronger,” said Bowen. “So, last year we graduated two seniors. Now seven remain to set an example for the newcomers on the team. We have five incoming freshmen who we expect to jump in and be contributors right off the bat. So far, we’ve seen that the returners have matured an incredible amount, so I’m pretty confident they will make an impact.”
Houston Christian's Jadyn GranereJustin Hartojo (VYPE)
Particularly, she expressed her praise for junior catcher Jadyn Granere. The 2022 Private School All-VYPE First-Teamer has proven herself to be among the best hitters in the conference (2022: .390 BA, 26 RBIs, 3 HR, 11 2B), thus her placement in the three-hole of the Mustangs lineup that is loaded with a talented group of hitters from top to bottom.
Bowen, a former catcher for the University of Tulsa, is entering her third season of directing the Stangs. Given the time she’s spent at the school, she recognized the appeal of Houston Christian and what makes it a distinct experience for her and the athletes she works with.
Photo taken during Houston Christian's matchup against TWCA (5/1/2022)Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I tell you, the culture here is one of inclusion and all-around support and love from the staff and the kids,” she said. “The girls really buy in more than other places that I’ve been, and that’s what is really going to take this team far this season.”
Coach Bowen and Houston Christian softball are poised for an upgrade this Spring. A run for the SPC Title is certainly not out of the question.
2022-23 Pearland High School Girls Basketball
Juan De Leon (VYPE)
It was only a matter of time before the Lady Oilers regained their commanding form in the Houston area, cruising to a 30-3 (12-0 in district) regular season record en route to a district championship and beyond.
Pearland GBB following their victory over Summer Creek in the Regional FinalsPhoto acquired via Pearland ISD Twitter: @PearlandISD
Their skill was put on full display in their recent 39-26 win over Summer Creek in the 6A-3 Regional Finals, as they punched their ticket to San Antonio to face off against DeSoto this Friday for the opportunity to contend for the UIL State Title.
“This season has been truly fun and special,” said coach Jere’ Adams. “These ladies are so funny and it’s been a joy to watch them grow over this season. The most important thing has been buy-in and strong leadership. Since losing last year, the kids have been intentional and focused on achieving our goals this year. Our three seniors have done a great job leading the team.”
Pearland's RyLee GraysJuan De Leon (VYPE)
Said seniors, standout North Carolina-signee RyLee Grays (17 PPG, 11 RPG) has been lighting up the scoreboard, as well as guards, Paige Bonner (4 SPG, 3 APG) and Janae Tucker (3 APG, 2 SPG), have both exhibited defensive prowess all season.
Furthermore, junior Nyah Hardy (10 PPG, 3 RPG, 78% FT) along with junior La’Niah Thornton’s three-point proficiency, has provided the extra firepower that has led the Lady Oilers to become seemingly unstoppable.
Pearland's Nyah HardyJuan De Leon (VYPE)
However, the Lady Oilers aren’t finished yet. After returning to the final four on the heels of a State Tourney drought that lasted over four decades, Pearland does not intend to return home empty-handed.
“I am expecting my team to continue to work hard every day for the goals we have set ourselves,” Adams said. “Winning it all would be a blessing. We’ve worked so hard this year and this group is so special, so to end the year with a victory would be absolutely spectacular.”
Janae Tucker
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