Historic 2025 All-Piney Woods Volleyball Team Unveiled
The inaugural All-Piney Woods volleyball team has been announced, celebrating a significant milestone in the region’s sports history. The 2025 season saw the introduction of a new volleyball program in Harleton, alongside remarkable performances from athletes representing their schools with pride. A total of 49 players were nominated by head coaches from six schools, marking a historic moment for volleyball in the Piney Woods.
The nominations were spearheaded by head coaches Madison Netherland (Elysian Fields), Tara Wager (Hallsville), Megan Roberts (Harleton), Jade Strother (Jefferson), Tina Miller (Marshall), and Beth Lawson (Waskom). This recognition highlights the growing talent and competitive spirit within the region.
Top Honors and Key Players
Kaycin Farrell, a junior from Hallsville, earned the title of Most Valuable Player. Her exceptional skills were instrumental in leading the Hallsville Lady Cats to a commendable overall record of 31-10 and an undefeated 16-0 in District 10-5A. Farrell’s impressive season statistics include 402 kills, 302 digs, and a hitting percentage of .371. She achieved a significant milestone early in the season, securing her 1,000th career kill at the Volleypalooza tournament in Austin. Additionally, she was named the District MVP.
Another standout player, Madison Owens from Elysian Fields, claimed the Offensive Player of the Year award. As a senior, she played a pivotal role in her team’s performance, contributing to a 14-29 overall record and a bi-district appearance in the Class 2A Division 1 playoffs. Owens concluded her season with 407 kills and earned a spot on the 1st team all-district.
Defensive excellence was showcased by Danika Cantu from Marshall, who was recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year. Cantu, a junior libero, demonstrated remarkable defensive skills with 591 digs and 25 aces across 107 sets. Her efforts helped propel the Lady Mavericks to a 24-16 overall record, their best performance since 2021.
The Newcomer of the Year accolade was awarded to Kylee Fernandez, also from Hallsville. In her first year on the varsity team, she made an immediate impact with 231 kills and was named the District 10-5A Co-Blocker of the Year. Fernandez’s performance solidified her position as a vital player on the Lady Cats’ front row.
Coaching Excellence and Team Recognition
Tara Wager, head coach of Hallsville, received the Coach of the Year award for leading her team to a historic season. Under her guidance, the Lady Cats achieved an undefeated district championship and reached the bi-district round of the playoffs. Wager’s strategic approach and ability to navigate a challenging schedule helped maximize her team’s potential.
The All-Piney Woods volleyball team also includes a range of talented players across different positions. The First Team features:
– Middle Blockers: Madi Farrell (Hallsville), Kylee Fernandez (Hallsville), Kinlee Smith (Marshall)
– Outside Hitters: Madison Owens (Elysian Fields), Kaycin Farrell (Hallsville), Michelle Hernandez (Waskom)
– Setter: Lilly Fry (Hallsville)
– Libero/Defensive Specialist: Holly Roberts (Harleton), Danika Cantu (Marshall)
– Utility: Payton Myers (Waskom)
The Second Team comprises players like Reagan McCarty (Harleton) and Elizabeth Hale (Hallsville), while the Third Team includes young talents such as Cloey Davis (Elysian Fields) and Kaleigh Merritt (Elysian Fields). Honorable mentions highlight even more players who contributed significantly throughout the season.
The inaugural All-Piney Woods volleyball awards not only recognize individual talent but also reflect the growth of volleyball in the region. As schools continue to develop their programs, the future of volleyball in the Piney Woods looks bright, promising exciting seasons to come.
