High Island Lady Cardinals Headed to State Tournament After Undefeated District Season

By Sharisa Nelson

The High Island Lady Cardinals volleyball team is headed to the Texas Christian Athletic League (TCAL) State Tournament after putting together an undefeated district season and establishing itself as one of the top teams in its classification.

Ranked No. 1 among TCAL 2A schools in Texas, the Lady Cardinals have continued to build momentum through hard work, team chemistry and a challenging schedule designed to prepare them for postseason competition. The team had won seven consecutive matches as of October 13, including a 3-0 victory over Banff with set scores of 25-19, 25-23 and 25-18.

Head coach Rikki Endsley said the team’s success is the result of the players’ commitment and the preparation they put in throughout the season. Before district play began, High Island faced strong competition in preseason and tournament action, finishing third in the silver bracket at the Warren High School tournament and second in the gold bracket at the Silsbee tournament.

Those early challenges helped the team develop confidence and learn to work together when matches became difficult. Once district play began, the Lady Cardinals’ chemistry continued to grow, carrying them through an undefeated district campaign.

Endsley said she is proud of the way the players have represented High Island and believes they have earned the opportunity to compete for a state championship.

The Lady Cardinals’ balanced effort has been evident in recent matches. In the win over Banff, Cambrie Gilmore recorded 12 kills, 13 solo blocks and two aces, while Catherine Crooks contributed 24 assists, eight digs and three solo blocks.

With the state tournament ahead, High Island will look to carry its regular-season success into championship competition. The Lady Cardinals’ undefeated district record and strong finish have given the team plenty of reason to be confident as it prepares for the next challenge.

For High Island, the trip to state represents more than a postseason appearance. It is a reward for the dedication, teamwork and determination the Lady Cardinals have demonstrated throughout the season.