Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

For Head Volleyball Coach Kaddie Platt, the Memorial High School Mustangs’ greatest strength isn’t just skill on the court—it’s the family-like bond that connects players across every level of the program including varsity, junior varsity and freshmen.

“We’re a family, and we work hard for each other,” Platt said. “They really care about one another. From our varsity players to our freshmen, everyone is valued. We try to create a community where we take care of each other.

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Building a volleyball family

That sense of community is woven into everything the program does. From the “big sister-little sister” mentorship activities, our Food Bank Community Outreach, to scavenger hunt activity that help freshmen locate different areas around campus, the Mustangs create opportunities for players to connect and support each other.

“We want our younger players to feel like they belong right away,” Platt said. “When they see a teammate in the hallway who can bring a smile to their face, it makes a big difference during those stressful first weeks of school.”

On game nights, that bond shows in the way the Mustangs cheer and rally for one another—whether on the floor, on the bench, or in the stands. The players are all in for the Mustangs!

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Areas of growth

The Mustangs used their offseason to sharpen communication, bring energy into every drill, and strengthen fundamentals.

“Our biggest focus is serving tough and passing well so we can run our full offense,” Platt said. “We’ve always been a strong defensive team with a lot of effort, but this spring we put extra emphasis on blocking and pass to attack offense execution."

Video analysis and film review also play a big role. “A lot of times players can’t feel what they’re doing wrong, but when they see it on video, it clicks,” Platt said. “That makes teaching much more efficient. The team really likes that immediate feedback."

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Goals for the season

After advancing to the area round last season, Memorial has its sights set on going further.

“The seniors met in the spring and set their goal to not only win district and qualify for playoffs, but to also win that area game and keep advancing,” Platt said. “That’s the standard they’ve set for themselves and the team.”

Just as important, the Mustangs continue to develop the whole student-athlete, pushing for growth in academics, leadership, and life skills alongside volleyball success.

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Players to watch

The Mustangs return six lettermen, including two of the district’s most decorated players:

• Ella Ross, S – Named Setter of the Year for the District last season. She hit a milestone of 1000 Assists last year.  A senior leader known for her high energy, competitiveness, and servant-heart.
• Kassia Tan, L – Named Defensive Player of the Year in District 17-6A. She surpassed the 1,000 career digs milestone and anchors our defense with toughness and poise.
• Mary Margaret Schwieder, OH – A returning letterman poised for a breakout season.
• Addie Beckcom, OH – Brings athleticism and versatility to our offense.
• Ann Scott Torn, MB – Expected to play a major role at the net with blocking and quick offense.
• Bess Berg, S – A returning varsity letterman who has great leadership skills and sets the tone for working hard to her teammates.

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Leadership by design

Memorial uses a layered leadership system. While captains are voted on by players and staff, additional roles—such as fashion captain, community outreach captain, or social captain—give athletes opportunities to take ownership and grow as leaders.

“Not everyone is a floor captain, but everyone has the chance to lead,” Platt said. “It helps everyone develop responsibility and pride in the program.”

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Looking ahead

With six key returners, two of the district’s most decorated players, and a deep culture of family and leadership, the Mustangs are hungry to take the next step.

“We want to build on what we accomplished last year and go even further,” Platt said. “This group is competitive, united, and ready to represent Memorial with pride.”

For schedules, tickets, and more on SBISD volleyball, visit the SBISD Athletics website.

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