It’s no secret that Grand Oaks was, by far, the most dominant team in the state in 2023.
After going 50-1, and only losing nine total sets all season, the Grizzlies would go on to achieve their ultimate goal of claiming the UIL-6A State TitleState Title.
Naturally, their stacked roster will likely vie for a repeat this Fall, despite the departure of Jaela Auguste (Florida), Audrey Terry (Sam Houston State) and Caelyn Emmerling (Texas State) over the offseason.
It will now be up to incoming senior Samara Coleman and junior Halle Thompson to lead the new group of title-contenders.
Coleman is coming off a year which saw her earn first-team, all-state honors, as well as being named the District 13-6A Co-Most Valuable Hitter and to the 6A All-Tournament team.
We caught up with the Pittsburgh-commit as she prepares for the final stretch of her high school career.
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VYPE: What’s a quote or saying that you live by?
COLEMAN: “My older brother, Anthony Patrick Coleman (3/13/1988 - 4/11/2024), wrote a motto nine years ago that will still reside in my heart for years to come: ‘Yesterday is the past. Today is brand new. Tomorrow is a mystery, so use your time wisely because it may be few. I know it sounds corny, but it’s true’.”
VYPE: What is your favorite part of the State ring design?
COLEMAN: “I would have to say it’s ‘#dreamteam’ engraved on the inside of it, because it represents the team aspect that went into our success this past season.”
VYPE: What would be your cheat day food menu?
COLEMAN: “That easy. It would be a plate of orange chicken, lo mein, and white rice from Panda Express.”
VYPE: What’s it like being an older sister to twins?
COLEMAN: “It’s taught me how important teamwork and having someone by your side really is.”
VYPE: Why did you commit to Pittsburgh?
COLEMAN: “I chose Pittsburgh because I knew it was a place where I was going to excel in volleyball and also feel at home. Not to mention the amazing coaches and staff at the school. It’s a dream come true.”
VYPE: How does it feel to have a target on your back this upcoming Fall, after winning a State Title?
COLEMAN: “It can be both exciting and challenging. It shows that others see me as a strong competitor. I’ve just learned to embrace it, stay focused and keep working hard. It's a chance to prove myself again and show everyone why we’re the champs!”