By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR.
Special to the PRESS
The (11-23) 2025 PIECHS Volleyball team had a brutal non-district schedule, but it was scheduled by design as it ultimately prepared the team for the district race. By the end of the district games, the Lady Tarpons finished with a 6-4 district record and a trip to the playoffs. They lost their bi-district match to Harmony School of Excellence in a 3-1 game, but showed great improvement overall as they went on to shutout 5 out of their last 9 opponents.
For their efforts on the court, several players were recognized in 16-4A All-District list. Earning First Team All-District was senior Nadia Flaig* who was a blocking machine at the net and whose thunderous spikes wowed fans all season long.
Earning Second Team selections included Senior Precious Vasquez, senior Kymberlie Estrada, junior Arianna Garcia, and sophomore Isabel Ochoa.
Earning Honorable Mention were senior Julieta Ruiz*, senior Maria Cuevas*, senior Rachel Martinez, sophomore Layla Mata*, junior Escarlet Urrutia*, and junior Jacqueline Nava*.
*= All Academic Team (Maria Vasquez)
As far as superlatives go, PIECHS sophomore EMMA Shukitt was selected as Newcomer of the Year. Shukitt joined the team midseason and instantly showed her skills on both sides of the net, very similar to teammate Flaig, she was a stout blocker and used her height to land several spiked Aces.
Head volleyball coach, Johvonne Howard was pleased with the maturation of her team and looks forward to the future.
“This volleyball season was truly our best yet. The group of seniors we’ve had for four years set the bar—and the standard—right back where it belongs. They helped rebuild the expectations of this program with their leadership, commitment, and pride in wearing Tarpon blue.” Said coach Howard. “This team showed tremendous growth—especially in defensive hustle, in-game adjustments, and mental toughness. Next year’s group will only continue to rise. They’ve seen firsthand what it takes to improve, and the next step is building stronger team chemistry and holding one another accountable from day one. Their season is their responsibility. And with the foundation laid by this senior class, the future of Tarpon Volleyball is brighter than ever.”