Abby Howell, Bushland volleyball, Sr.
On the court: Howell ended her volleyball career in the best way possible helping lead the powerful Bushland Lady Falcons to their third UIL Class 3A state championship in four years and a seventh overall in program history. Howell was a part of two state championships over her three years on varsity playing in three overall.
During Saturday’s state championship win over Gunter in four-sets, the Region I-3A Tournament MVP knocked down 14 kills, adding two blocks with two aces. For her efforts, Howell was named to the Class 3A State Tournament team.
For the season, Howell had a tremendous year with 670 kills, 68 aces, 30 digs with 20 blocks.
Coach Jason Culpepper: “It was really exciting to win another one. Each one has been different and special in its own way. Losing last year in the state championship was tough but seeing this new group put it all together and come back to win it was such a fun year. The growth of Abby has been awesome to see. Her volleyball skill has grown so much. She developed different shots and I think that has come from maturity and leadership. She’s just a leader in the entire athletic program and she plays with a lot of confidence. She took this year seriously and she knew this was an opportunity to show how good she and her team was.”
Howell: “It feels great to go out as a senior with another state championship. It’s what myself and the rest of these seniors wanted. It’s so special just to be a part of such a great program. I was in junior high when they started making these runs to state every year and I always wanted to carry on that legacy. I just feel I got a lot better from the hard work and coach Culpepper always pushing me. I learn so much from him every day and from my teammates. I can’t thank them enough for always making me better.”
About Howell
Favorite band or musician: Luke Combs
Favorite social media platform: Instagram
Favorite athlete: Her older sister, Jillian Howell
Bet you didn’t know: She is very much a homebody.
Parents: Chantz and Beth Howell