Lady Dawgs volleyball serves up district success; playoffs next
The 2026 Burnet High School varsity volleyball team. Staff photo by Caden Senn
The Burnet High School volleyball teams recently wrapped up their regular seasons, dominating on the court and each earning the title of district champion.
The freshman, junior varsity, and varsity Lady Dawgs volleyball teams played their last sets on Friday, Oct. 23, defeating Lago Vista at home. As a result, all three teams slotted in first place in district play, crowning them as district champions.
The varsity girls will advance to the 2026 UIL Volleyball Conference 4A D1 Playoffs, where they will face off against Travis Early College High School in the bi-district championship. The game begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at Georgetown East View High School. Get tickets here.
“We want to see a sea of kelly green in the stands on Thursday,” head coach Crystal Shipley said. “Come support these amazing athletes as they begin their playoff journey. Your support means so much to our girls, and we cannot wait to see our Burnet community show up!”
Season recap
All three Lady Dawg teams scratched superior seasons into the books this year, tallying just three losses in district play total out of 30 matchups.
The freshman team finished their season with 22-7 overall and 9-1 in district, becoming district champions.
“In just three months, these girls have learned so much about the game of volleyball,” Shipley said. “They have been eager to learn, improve, compete, and push themselves to become better players. Coach (Brent) Kelley did an amazing job developing their knowledge, skills, and competitiveness throughout the season.”
The junior varsity team recorded a 19-9 overall season and went 8-2 in district play, tying for first place with Marble Falls to become district co-champions.
“This group brought together freshmen, sophomores, and juniors, and they bonded quickly as a team,” Shipley said. “That connection helped them learn to trust one another, work together, and find success on the court. Coach (Treasure) Ellerbe was incredible with this crew, continually developing their knowledge, skills, and confidence throughout the season.”
The varsity Lady Dawgs finished 31-12 overall and went undefeated in district, 10-0, to become the undefeated district champions. The Lady Dawgs only lost three sets total during district play.
“This team is special,” Shipley said. “They have come together, built trust in one another, and shown that they genuinely want the best for their teammates and this program. They have trusted every step of the process, continued to raise the standard, and shown up ready to work and get better every single day. Their commitment to one another and to the bigger picture has been incredible to watch.”