By KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
RIO HONDO — Senior Taylor Gomez always wanted to play volleyball at the college level. On Thursday, she made that dream a reality by signing to play volleyball at Huston-Tillotson University in Austin.
Gomez, a three-sport athlete who played basketball, track and volleyball, secured her college future Thursday and will graduate later today.
“This has always been a lifelong goal of mine to play at the college level,” Gomez said. “I see this as a great opportunity to help strengthen my game and be a part of a strong and winning program, and I will be able to get a college degree in the next four years.”
Gomez had a few other offers to play volleyball, but after a trip to the campus and after a tryout she felt like HTU was the place to be.
“The tryout went great, Gomez said. “I can tell the coaching staff will help me improve my game to the next level. What made me want to go there is just how receptive the coach was and how enthusiastic he was about the volleyball program, and how he stressed the importance of academics.”
Gomez was a part of two playoff teams her junior and senior year. This past fall, Gomez was named the District 32-4A defensive player of the year. Gomez also received the same award her junior season.
She finished with 171 kills, 146 digs, 30 blocks and 12 aces. Gomez was also named to the East all-star team.
“Taylor was our 2019 senior captain. she was a great leader and a well-competitive student athlete,” Rio Hondo volleyball coach Lizzette Esparza said. “She, along with her teammates, helped build the foundation for next season, and has set the bar for her teammates and future Lady Bobcats. I’m honored to have coached her, and I wish her the best. Coach Behnke at HTU is gaining a great kid with a great family.”
Gomez will look to play the middle blocker and outside hitter positions. She is prepared for the challenge of becoming a college athlete.
“I think the biggest difference will be the level of competition, everyone on the team excelled in high school, along with the intensity of the practices,” Gomez said.