Here’s a look at the Amarillo High Lady Sandies heading into the 2025 volleyball season. Take a listen to head coach Haleigh Burns in the video at the link above. Burns talks about her very experienced Lady Sandies team returning including Kinsler Hanson and Kensleigh Payne. Burns also talks about the versatility of her team and what goals she has for the Lady Sandies before starting their very competitive district schedule.
2024 resume
Head coach: Haleigh Burns, second year at Amarillo High.
2024 Record: 37-7 overall, 16-0 in District 3-5A. Class 5A Division I regional semifinalist.
Returning starters: 6
Season opener: at West Plains, 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11.
The rest of this story is only for subscribers.

Players to watch
Kinsler Hanson, 5-8, outside hitter, Sr.
Hanson is going to play an even bigger role for Amarillo High this year after knocking down 217 kills last season to go with 60 digs and 27 blocks. Coach Burns is optimistic about the All-District honorable mention’s leadership ability and what she brings on and off the floor.
Kensleigh Payne, 6-0, middle blocker, Sr.
Payne put together a strong summer and is off a great start to fall workouts. The second-team All-District selection had a great junior year playing a big part at the net with her size pounding down 152 kills while making 110 blocks. Payne will be key on both offense and defense for AHS.
Harper Vaughan, 6-0, outside hitter, Soph.
Vaughan will be a household name by season’s end. Vaughan played on JV last year after transferring from West Plains but is now on the varsity and ready to show what she is capable of. Coach Burns is very high on Vaughan and the expectations behind her. Vaughan has a big arm with a big swing and by the end of the year will be a player everyone will be game planning around.