Spring Branch ISD Featured News

 

For Head Volleyball Coach Chandre Crawford, year one with the Northbrook (NHS) Raiders is about more than wins—it’s about building energy, respect, and culture both on and off the court.

“Our strengths this season are the bonds we’re building within our team and community,” Crawford said. “We may not have the tallest girls, but we’ve got athletes who can jump, hit hard, and play with heart. More importantly, we’re connecting as a family and supporting each other.”

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Building community and confidence

Crawford emphasized that the team’s growth goes beyond skills. The Raiders are working to strengthen ties within their own program—between varsity, JV, and freshmen—and also with the larger Northbrook community.

“We’re making sure support is spread across all levels of the program,” Crawford said. “It’s about family showing up, cheering, and backing our girls. We’re also working on partnerships and sponsorships so the players can get more opportunities for their future.”

That culture shift is part of Crawford’s bigger vision: changing the way others view Northbrook athletics.

“We know sometimes people look at NHS and think they already know the outcome,” Crawford said. “But we’re working to change that mindset, starting with how we respect ourselves and how hard we’re willing to work.”

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Areas of growth

Skill-wise, the Raiders are focused on defense, speed, and consistency.

“We’re working harder and moving faster so we can compete with bigger teams,” Crawford said. “The girls are also learning to get comfortable with failure—understanding that mistakes happen, but you can grow from them. That’s part of becoming better athletes and better people.”

Summer workouts and open gyms have been crucial in refining fundamentals, building stamina, and giving athletes the confidence to push past challenges.

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Goals for the season

For Coach Crawford’s first season as head coach, the team’s primary benchmark is simple: progress.

“Our goal is to earn at least two conference wins this season,” Crawford said. “But even more than that, we want to compete hard and earn respect. If people look at Northbrook at the end of the year and see us as a program that works, fights, and deserves respect, that’s success.”

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Players to watch

The Raiders bring back most of last year’s varsity roster, now stronger and more experienced as juniors and seniors. Standouts include:

• Chasiti Jenkins, OH – A senior hitter whose growth in defensive play and back-row contributions have elevated her into a versatile, all-around leader.

• Yaretzi Ramirez, S – A dynamic junior setter, described by Coach Crawford as “a beast.” She runs the offense with confidence, does a little bit of everything, and consistently raises the level of her teammates.

• Valery Perez – A steady presence and team captain, setting the tone on and off the court.

• Key Juniors & Sophomores – Young talent stepping into larger roles, bringing fresh energy and balance to the roster. Standouts include Tairy Araniba, Alexandra Valencia, and Miranda Vergara.

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Leadership and captains

At NHS, captains are chosen through a mix of player vote and coach input—with the goal of identifying leaders who embody dependability, positivity, and teamwork.

“A captain doesn’t have to be the best player,” Crawford said. “I want leaders who are dependable, supportive, and who their teammates want to follow. That’s what real leadership looks like.”

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Looking ahead

As she begins her first season as head coach, Crawford is grateful for the support she’s received from the Northbrook community and SBISD leadership.

“I’m thankful to be here and for the trust people have placed in me,” Crawford said. “This team is special. We’re working to build something great, and I believe these girls are ready to show what Northbrook volleyball can become.”

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

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