Houston, TX, November 21, 2025
The University of Houston Volleyball team has made crucial advancements in recruiting by signing four freshmen for the 2026 class. This strategic move enhances the team’s talent across all positions, showcasing the university’s commitment to achieving excellence in collegiate athletics. These players bring impressive achievements from their high school careers, indicating a bright future for the volleyball program and increasing competitiveness in the region.
Houston, TX — The University of Houston Volleyball team has made significant strides in recruiting, announcing the signing of four promising freshmen for the 2026 class as the early signing period opens. This latest commitment bolsters the team’s roster with exceptional talent across all positions, reinforcing the program’s commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics.
Introducing the Fresh Talents
- Shannon Dworaczyk – Setter from Magnolia, Texas. Dworaczyk set a school record with 4,155 career assists at Magnolia West High School and led her team to the Area Stage of the 2024 UIL 6A State Championships. She also earned AVCA All-Region honors in her senior year.
- Cali Reece – Defensive Specialist/Libero from Spring, Texas. Reece accumulated 1,316 digs and 145 aces during her high school career at Grand Oaks High School and played a pivotal role in leading her team to UIL State Championships in her sophomore and junior years.
- Leah Robinson – Outside Hitter from Kansas City, Missouri. Robinson is a four-time First Team All-District honoree, contributing 363 kills, 48 blocks, 204 digs, and 22 aces in her first two years at St. James Academy. She was instrumental in her club team securing victory at the 2024 USAV National Championship.
- Ava Wilkerson – Middle Blocker from Hillsborough, North Carolina. Wilkerson demonstrated her skill with 877 kills, 164 blocks, and 73 aces during her tenure at Orange High School, earning two-time All-Region and All-Conference selections while helping her team reach the quarterfinals of the NCHSAA 5A Tournament.
Impact on Houston’s Volleyball Landscape
The addition of these four athletes highlights the University of Houston’s strategy of investing in exceptional talent. This initiative not only strengthens the volleyball program but also enhances the overall competitive spirit of Houston’s athletic scene. By attracting skilled players, the program aims to elevate its status regionally and nationally, providing fans with exciting prospects for the upcoming seasons.
Community and Program Dedication
The recruiting efforts align with a broader commitment to foster sports excellence through community engagement and support. By developing players from diverse backgrounds, the university embraces a culture of inclusivity while nurturing individual player development. Such community-backed initiatives can result in increased support for local athletics, paving the way for the next generation of athletes.
Future Outlook and Program Growth
Looking ahead, the University of Houston Volleyball team anticipates these new signings will significantly contribute to the team’s success. The program’s focus on securing robust recruits illustrates the dedication needed to achieve sustainable growth in competitive college sports. This kind of initiative is essential for cultivating a thriving athletic culture within the university and the wider Houston community.
Stay Connected with Houston Volleyball
Fans eager for updates on the Houston Volleyball team can follow their journey and new activities through social media channels. Staying connected will allow supporters to follow the team’s progress as they integrate their new players into the roster.
- Twitter: @UHCougarVB
- Facebook: UHCougarVB
- Instagram: @UHCougarVB
Conclusion
The recent signings by the University of Houston Volleyball team reflect a strong commitment to developing a championship-caliber program. By integrating talented recruits and fostering community support, the university positions itself to enhance not only its athletic programs but also contribute to the thriving sports landscape in Houston. Fans and local supporters have an excellent opportunity to engage with the program as it embarks on this exciting journey.
Who are the four incoming freshmen signed by Houston Volleyball for the 2026 class?
The four incoming freshmen are Shannon Dworaczyk (Setter from Magnolia, Texas), Cali Reece (Defensive Specialist/Libero from Spring, Texas), Leah Robinson (Outside Hitter from Kansas City, Missouri), and Ava Wilkerson (Middle Blocker from Hillsborough, North Carolina).
What are some of the achievements of these incoming players?
Shannon Dworaczyk set a school record with 4,155 career assists at Magnolia West High School. Cali Reece accumulated 1,316 digs and 145 aces during her high school career at Grand Oaks High School. Leah Robinson contributed 363 kills, 48 blocks, 204 digs, and 22 aces in her first two years at St. James Academy and played a key role in her club team’s victory at the 2024 USAV National Championship. Ava Wilkerson recorded 877 kills, 164 blocks, and 73 aces during her high school tenure at Orange High School and was a two-time All-Region and All-Conference selection.
How can fans stay updated on Houston Volleyball news?
Fans can follow the Houston Volleyball team on social media platforms: Twitter (@UHCougarVB), Facebook (UHCougarVB), and Instagram (@UHCougarVB) for the latest updates and news.
| Player | Position | Hometown | High School | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shannon Dworaczyk | Setter | Magnolia, Texas | Magnolia West High School | Set school record with 4,155 career assists; led team to Area Stage of 2024 UIL 6A State Championships; earned AVCA All-Region honors in senior year. |
| Cali Reece | Defensive Specialist/Libero | Spring, Texas | Grand Oaks High School | Accumulated 1,316 digs and 145 aces; led team to UIL State Championships in sophomore and junior years. |
| Leah Robinson | Outside Hitter | Kansas City, Missouri | St. James Academy | Contributed 363 kills, 48 blocks, 204 digs, and 22 aces in first two years; played key role in club team’s victory at 2024 USAV National Championship. |
| Ava Wilkerson | Middle Blocker | Hillsborough, North Carolina | Orange High School | Recorded 877 kills, 164 blocks, and 73 aces; two-time All-Region and All-Conference selection; helped team reach quarterfinals of NCHSAA 5A Tournament in junior and senior years. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Houston Volleyball Signs Four Talented Freshmen
Houston Cougars Make Strides in 2026 Recruiting Efforts
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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