Girls Volleyball League Serves Up Confidence & Community

by Charlotte Kovalchuk

Last fall, Sonterra launched a new girls volleyball league with modest hopes. Organizers weren’t sure how many families would sign up since the league was still new, and Sonterra doesn’t yet have athletic facilities of its own.

But, by the time the season started, more than 100 girls had registered. “It was very exciting,” says Tyler Brown, recreation manager for Sonterra MUD Parks and Recreation. “We kept our expectations in check, but the response really showed there’s a need— and a desire—for more sports programs for girls in our community.”

This fall, as the second season kicks off, Tyler and his team are looking to build on that momentum. With practices held at Jarrell Middle School and games starting in late September, the league is designed as a welcoming, recreational space for girls to learn the game, gain confidence, and have fun. “We’re not focused on wins or losses,” Tyler says. “This league is about learning, gaining confidence, getting involved in community activities, getting parents out with each other, and bringing the community together.”

He sees the league as more than just a seasonal sport. It’s part of a bigger vision: creating lasting recreational opportunities for Sonterra families and building a pipeline to middle and high school athletics. “In the past, families had to drive to Georgetown, Round Rock, Salado—wherever they could find programs,” he says. “But we want to offer something right here, in our own community. That’s what this league is about—doing something for the girls of Sonterra.”

The growth of the volleyball league also parallels the success of Sonterra’s youth basketball program, which now serves 240 kids. Tyler hopes the volleyball program can eventually grow to match those numbers too. “In the first couple of weeks, it’s all about learning,” he says. “But by the end of the season, you see such a transformation. The girls are more confident, more competitive, and really into it. It happens fast—and it’s exciting.”

POWERED BY COMMUNITY

Just as rewarding is the sense of community created along the way.

“You’ve got parents on the sidelines cheering together, neighbors coaching, kids encouraging one another. It’s not just a sport—it’s something that brings people together.”

Sonterra MUD doesn’t currently have dedicated athletic facilities, so much of the programming relies on partnerships with local schools. Tyler credits Jarrell ISD with mak-

ing it all possible. “They’ve been very good to us,” he says. “Without their support and the use of their middle school gym, we wouldn’t be able to run this league. We’re incredibly grateful.”

This year, all practices and games will take place at Jarrell Middle School. Starting September 16, practices are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m., with the season’s first games kicking off on September 27. Players will compete in three age divisions: 7–8, 9–10, and 11–12.

Registration is open through September 8, with a skills assessment scheduled for September 13. Interested families can register through CivicRec or reach out to athletics@sonterramud.org for more information.

The league is entirely volunteer-run—an effort that not only keeps costs down, but also creates a uniquely connected atmosphere. “We don’t pay coaches,” Tyler explains. “Everything depends on volunteers—head coaches, assistant coaches, even student helpers. We really encourage anyone interested to get involved.”

Registration: July 28-September 8

Skills Assessment: September 13

Season: September 16-November 9