Westlake Chaps Stay on Top of Central Texas Volleyball Rankings

When the Central Texas Volleyball Coaches Association released its weekly power poll on Tuesday, the headline was hardly a surprise – the Westlake Chaps are still perched at No. 1. It’s the second straight week the Lions have topped the list, and the buzz around Austin’s gymnasium is palpable.

Westlake sits undefeated at 10‑0, a record that looks almost effortless when you scroll through the box scores. The team’s offense, led by senior outside hitter Clayton Kelly, has been especially prolific. Kelly’s quick attacks and knack for finding the seam in the defense have turned a lot of close sets into easy points – and the crowd loves it.

“We’re just trying to take it one game at a time,” Coach Mike Anderson said in a brief interview after practice. “The rankings are nice, but the kids know they have to stay focused, especially with Vandegrift coming up next week.”

The upcoming clash with Vandegrift, scheduled for Friday night at the Austin American-Statesman Arena, is already being called a “must‑win” by both fan bases. Vandegrift has surged into the top five this season, and their powerful right‑side attack could test Westlake’s celebrated back‑row defense.

Speaking of defense, the Chaps’ libero, junior Maya Torres, has been a quiet but crucial part of the formula. Her digs and serve‑receives keep the ball in play long enough for the setters to run the offense. “Maya’s work doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet, but when she’s on the floor, you feel the difference,” noted senior setter Alex Ramirez.

Beyond the court, the team’s chemistry seems to be the secret sauce. Players often joke about meeting at the local taco truck after practice, a ritual that, according to them, “keeps the morale high.” It’s little habits like that which make the Chaps feel more like a family than a squad.

Looking ahead, the schedule isn’t getting any easier. After Vandegrift, Westlake faces a road trip to Cedar Park, then a rivalry showdown with Lake Travis. Maintaining the No. 1 spot will demand consistency, depth, and a bit of that Westlake grit that’s become their trademark.

For now, though, the Chaps can enjoy a brief moment of bragging rights. The poll may change next week, but the feeling of being the team to beat – at least for the moment – is something the players and coaches aren’t ready to let go of just yet.