The Austin College volleyball team welcomes in six newcomers to the roster as head coach Ed Garza enters his 21st season on the sidelines.

"This group of student-athletes brings a great balance of athleticism, skill, and energy that will make an immediate impact when combined with our strong group of returners," said Garza. "All six of these young women bring experience playing at a high level, and they are committed to putting the work in to make us better every day. The future is very bright for Austin College volleyball."

Among the newcomers are defensive specialists Kayley LeBlanc (Plano, Texas) and Cassidy Watson (Venetia, Pa.). LeBlanc played libero for both her high school team and BlockSport VBC club team. Watson was a three-year starter in high school at Peters Township High, and also played libero and DS for her club team, Pittsburgh Elite VBC.

Also joining the 'Roos this year is setter Sam Fawcett (Plano, Texas). Fawcett was a starter and captain for Prince of Peace Christian School, helping that program to a third place finish in the state tournament last season. She was an All-Tournament Team selection and an All-State honorable mention pick, in addition to being named first team All-District. Fawcett also played club volleyball for Knights Volleyball Academy, helping that team become a national qualifier at the USAV National Championship, where they finished in the top 15 in the country.

"Sam is a dynamic setter who brings great energy and consistently puts her hitters in a position to be successful," said Garza. "She also plays great defense with endless pursuit. This team will benefit greatly from her energy and talk on and off the court."

Cailey Callahan (Frisco, Texas) also joins the 'Roos out of Wakeland, and with her 6-foot-2 size gives the 'Roos another tall athlete alongside returning players like Presleigh Watson and Rebekah Bowden in the middle. 

The 'Roos also welcome in two more newcomers in outside hitters Brooke Harris (Dallas, Texas) and Ashley Lipe (Livingston, Texas). Harris was an Academic All-District performer at Richardson High, in addition to being named first team All-District and her team's MVP as a senior. She was also second team All-District and team MVP as a junior, and second team All-District as a sophomore.

"Brooke is a pin hitter with a big upside and a great passion for the game," said Garza. "She has great athleticism and the ability to play high above the net."

Lipe comes to Austin College from Livingston High, where she was a three sport athlete with outstanding size at 6-feet. She'll use that size to her advantage on defense with her ability as a blocker, and will serve as a utility player with the versatility to play both outside and rightside for the 'Roos.