As the new volleyball season dawns, the Willowridge High School varsity girls’ volleyball team is ready to defy expectations. Competing in the highly competitive 5A Region III District 20, the Eagles enter the season with little fanfare, especially after finishing seventh last year with a 1-12 record. However, two determined seniors, Tarah Batiste and Laila Morrison, aim to rewrite the Willowridge narrative.
“Tarah Batiste is our middle blocker. She is also an outside hitter,” said Coach Olumoko. “She’s our big power. Last year she led the team in blocks. Laila Morrison is a big lefty. She can jump out the gym. She’s only 5-feet-4, but she plays 5-feet-10. She’s a leader, our team captain and has great hands.
Batiste and Morrison have been inseparable on the volleyball court since their days at McAuliffe Middle School. Their chemistry, forged over years of practice and competition, has become the backbone of the Eagles’ roster. Both seniors have dedicated countless hours to improving their skills, even spending time together on the Houston Outlaws volleyball club team.
At 5-foot-11, Batiste is an imposing presence at the net as the Eagles’ middle blocker. Her journey into volleyball began in the 5th grade when her elementary coach noticed her height and encouraged her to try various sports. However, it wasn’t until her junior year, under the guidance of Coach Georgia Olumoko, that Batiste began to see her potential to play at the next level. A standout season followed, earning her Second Team All-District 20-5A honors and the title of Defensive Player of the Year.
Morrison, at 5-foot-4, is the team’s captain and setter. Her love for the game was sparked by watching her sister, De’Onsha Butcher, who also previously played at Willowridge before graduating in 2019. Morrison’s leadership on the court is matched by her dedication off it, having been awarded last season for her commitment and academic excellence.
“Seeing my sister light up while playing volleyball made me want to experience that same excitement. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and it motivated me to try volleyball hoping to find the same love for the game that she had,” said Morrison.
Both Batiste and Morrison are two-year varsity lettermen, and their passion for volleyball extends beyond the high school gym. They frequently study the games of current and former University of Texas volleyball stars to refine their own techniques. Batiste draws inspiration from Asjia O’Neal, a two-time NCAA champion, while Morrison admires Ella Swindle, who led the Longhorns to a national championship as a freshman.
“I like how Asjia O’Neal is aggressive in her approach,” said Batiste. “I also like how she blocks. She plays confidently on the back row even though she’s a middle blocker.”
“Ella Swindle from the University of Texas inspires me as a setter because of her exceptional ability to read the court and communicate with her hitters,” said Morrison. “Watching her play amazes me how she anticipates the game and makes split-second decisions that set her team up for success. Her clear and effective communication ensures that her hitters are always in sync with her, creating a powerful offense. Ella’s skill and leadership on the court motivate me to improve my own game and strive to reach her level of excellence.”
Despite their impressive achievements, neither Batiste nor Morrison has committed to a collegiate program yet. They’re seeking a college environment where strong academics and a competitive, fun culture around volleyball coexist.
“It’s important to be surrounded by teammates and coaches who share that passion,” said Morrison. “I’m hoping to find an environment where people have positive attitudes and avoid negativity while balancing dedication and positivity to make a successful program.”
As Batiste and Morrison lead Willowridge into the 2024 season, Batiste and Morrison offer advice for younger athletes.
“Stay focused on your goals, work hard, and play hard. Remain positive and block out all negativity,” said Batiste.
Morrison echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
“Never give up. Every play depends on your team, so always work as a whole. Never exclude yourself from the team because, on the court, you all are one. Encourage your teammates and yourself, and remember that unity and support are key to success.”
With Batiste and Morrison at the helm, the Willowridge Eagles are poised to challenge the doubters and make their mark in District 20 this season.
About Tarah Batiste:
Class: 2025
IG: @its.tarahhh
Twitter: @BatisteVp
Position: Middle hitter
Height & weight: 5-feet-11, 148 pounds
Player she studies: Asjia O’Neal
Favorite artist: Megan Thee Stallion
Status: uncommitted
Favorite subject: Algebra
About Laila Morrison:
Class: 2025
IG: @laithagorg_
Twitter: @LailaM_07
Position: Setter
Height & weight: 5-feet-4, 128 pounds
Player she studies: Ella Swindle (University of Texas)
Favorite artist: Partynextdoor
Status: uncommitted
Favorite subject: Chemistry
