The Cypress Ranch Lady Mustangs have made a remarkable start to their volleyball season, maintaining an undefeated record of 8-0 and claiming victory at the Katy ISD Volleyball Classic. This performance earned them the distinction of Stellar Bank’s Team of the Week on Aug. 31, 2024.
Their impressive non-district journey was highlighted by a series of significant wins, including victories over the defending 6A state finalist, Cinco Ranch, and the reigning 6A state champion Grand Oaks, in consecutive matches to secure the tournament championship.
“I am really proud of my team and all of our hard work to gain such a big accomplishment,” junior setter Caroline Srubar said. “We work together and not as individuals but as a team, and we’ve built each other up every step of the way.”
The team’s success has been a testament to their resilience and determination, she said. The squad features four returning starters, including senior Taylor Porter, district 16-6A MVP and Vanderbilt University commit. Known for her leadership on and off the court, Porter is focused on continuing to grow as a leader while pushing her team toward further success.
“We are friends both on and off the court, and I find it so important that we can lean on each other through the season,” Porter said. “As a leader, I try to be calm and down to earth, so my teammates know that everything will be OK no matter what happens,”
Additionally, the Mustangs possess another Division I talent, junior setter Zora Bello, who is set to play at Rice University. Bello is known as a key contributor to the team, and she brings her commitment and ability to excel under pressure. Bello said she appreciates the team’s strong chemistry and collective strength.
“Being together as a team is important because you don’t feel that everything has to be done by yourself, and you have others to support you,” Bello said. “We all worked really hard for this, so it feels like we are getting the recognition that we all deserve.”
With high hopes for the remainder of the season, the Lady Mustangs are aiming to win the state championship. They recognize that achieving this goal will require the effort and dedication of every player on the roster.
In recognition of their achievements, Cypress Ranch High School’s Lady Mustangs were honored with a plaque from Stellar Bank, acknowledging the team’s outstanding performance and dedication.
“Winning team of the week was such an honor for my teammates and me,” senior pin hitter Avery Daigle said. “It gave us the opportunity to show who we are and the expectations we have for this upcoming season. The bond that we have between the players is unmatched. We all love each other, and as long as we stay like that, we will be achieving some huge goals this year.”
