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2023-24 Baytown Sterling Volleyball
‘F.A.M.I.L.Y’: Southall, Baytown Sterling bouncing back in district
“They just started playing like a family,” said Southall. “It took a little while to establish the chemistry, since we’ve dealt with various injuries during the preseason and regular season, so our first district game was the first time we had everyone healthy and back together.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“It took that aspect for us to figure out who we are. I think going into each game, we’ve just gotten stronger, and they’ve been working for each other.”
Said injuries included one the Baytown team’s stars, 2022 District 17-5A Offensive MVP, Katy Barger (Sr. OH). This has given several other key pieces the opportunity to step up.
Sterling's Katy BargerBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“Katy (Barger) had been out for three weeks at one point,” Southall said. “However, when she got back, you know she’s a playmaker, so she definitely has had a huge impact on our team. In her absence, Bailee Payne (Sr. OH) has helped carry the team on several occasions.”
“But, I think in all actuality, most of the team has stepped up in their own way. Our setters, Kennedy Birdsell (Sr.) and Kyilee Whittington (Jr.), are key elements and are the driving forces of our team. Our defense relies heavily on Karmyn Hebert (Sr. L) and Briana Galvan (Sr. DS), so it’s really been a total team effort all the way through.”
As Sterling prepares for round two in the district race, they’ll have to contend with other powers such as Barbers Hill and Nederland.
Bailee Payne
“Going into the second round, it’s going to take some adjusting. There were some moments where we had some unforced errors the first time through district, but we’re more familiar with our opponents now. If and when we show up, I think it’s going to be a better time around for us.”
Given that fact, what will it take for Southall-Burkhalter and the Rangers to keep this momentum going?
“Honestly, it’s just going to be about maintaining our focus on one point at a time,” she said. “We can’t look too far in advance, we just need to be where our feet are. That’s the goal for the whole second half.”
“Our motto for the season, if you will, has been the acronym ‘F.A.M.I.L.Y.’ which means ‘Forget About Me, I Love You,’ which will continue to be our mindset moving forward, as we look for a spot in the playoffs.”
Stick around. Something tells us that this is only the beginning for Baytown Sterling.
Baytown Sterling's Katy Barger
THE ENTERTAINER: Sterling's Barger aims to put on show for senior year
The senior Ranger has been a major contributor for the program since donning their blue jersey. Most recently, Barger led Sterling to an appearance in the UIL Area Round, which earned herself District 17-5A Offensive MVP honors.
However, her volleyball journey began early into her adolescence.
“When I was younger, my babysitter played volleyball and she was able to go play in college,” Barger said. “Ever since then, that was my main goal, getting to better myself in order to play at a higher level.”
Bradley C. Collier (VYPE)
Mission accomplished it would seem, considering she will be playing for Houston Christian University a year from now.
“The feeling of finally committing was something else,” said Barger. “I chose HCU because they’re very close to home. I went on a few visits that were pretty far and I knew I didn’t want to be far too from my family. I love my parents and I depend on them a lot. Plus, I love the area it’s in and the program really spoke to me.”
Given that she also excels for her club team, TAV Houston, it makes sense that Barger would be getting attention from college recruiters. However, it also means that she doesn’t have too much free time.
“For some people, I know it can be difficult to commit yourself so much,” said Barger. “There’s really no break in between school and club volleyball, so you’re in it all year. With all the work that goes into the sport, getting worn out or tired of it can be a challenge. But I love the sport, so it’s what I have to do.”
Aside from her six-foot frame and athleticism, what makes Barger have such an impact on the court?
2023-24 Baytown Sterling VolleyballBradley C. Collier (VYPE)
“I just like to have fun," she said. “If we’re in the locker rooms before games, we’re listening to music, we’re dancing. There has to be someone to initiate that atmosphere, and I feel like that’s always been me.“
"Even if we’re on the court, I like to crack jokes in stressful situations to try to reduce the tension, and make sure everyone is having fun. I think that’s the best thing about working with teammates, especially those who share that same passion.”
Katy “The Entertainer” will be suiting up alongside her Sterling teammates one last time this Fall. After reaching Round No. 2 last year, she will have her sights set on adding to that standard.
“I think the heart of this team can help us go further,” Barger said. “All the seniors in this group have been playing together since we were in eighth grade. We’ve grown together and this is the last time playing volleyball for some. So, we aren’t going to go down easily.”