Three standout student-athletes from Katy ISD are making waves on the national volleyball scene, proving that talent, teamwork, and dedication extend beyond school boundaries.

Sydney Paxton of Katy High School, Kassidy Leggins of Seven Lakes High School, and Annabelle Journeycake of Tompkins High School—each standout varsity volleyball players representing different campuses within Katy ISD—came together as teammates on their club team, Houston Juniors Volleyball.

In Las Vegas during the weekend of March 14-15, the trio competed in the SCVA Red Rock Rave National Junior Qualifier, one of the premier youth volleyball tournaments in the country. Alongside their Houston Juniors teammates, the team delivered an outstanding performance, finishing third out of 95 teams.

With this top finish, the Houston Juniors squad has officially earned a bid to the 2026 USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championship in Indianapolis, marking a major milestone in their volleyball journeys.

“What makes this accomplishment so powerful is that these athletes represent different Katy ISD schools, yet they came together with one goal and delivered on a national stage,” said a proud supporter. “This speaks to their character, commitment, and the level of talent coming out of this community.”

Balancing academics and high-level athletics, Paxton, Leggins, and Journeycake exemplify what it means to be student-athletes committed to growth, competition, and success. As they prepare for Nationals, the community celebrates not just their achievement—but the unity and