Alief ISD Spring 2026

ALIEF ISD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

ALIEFISD.NET

Alief ISD is Revving Up for Full-Throttle Spring ENGINES START YOUR

PREGAME

cOntEntS TABLE of

09 Elsik High Mighty Rams

01 Tomas Delarosa A letter from the Assistant Athletic Director 02 Dr. Anthony Mays A letter from the Superintendent of Schools 03

31 Taylor High Roaring Lions In the Fast Lane 32 Off to the Races

19 Hastings High Fighting Bears Gold Rush 20 Built for Speed Hastings Track Poised to Unlock Tempo and Fearlessness Power Vi-Ura for Hastings Track & Field \\ By Matthew Ogle 23 Pitching for Familia Erick Calderon’s Journey to Hastings \\ By Matt Malatesta 24 Through Thick & Thin The Bears Will Use Experience to Counter Adversity On the Diamond 26 Bringing the Heat Rivalry and Ambition Igniting Hastings Softball 28 Breaking Par Veterans Continue to Represent the Development of Hastings Golf Its Potential 22 Supersonic

Blue Streak 10 No Days Off Competitive Edge Continues to Define Elsik T&F 12 Rising to the Challenge Salazar, Elsik Softball Seek to Top Last Year’s Playoff Milestone Passion for Softball \\ By Matt Malatesta 15 A Different Path to the Dugout Tubbs Ushering In a Brand New Vision for Elsik Baseball \\ By Matt Malatesta 16 Stepping Up to the Plate Tubbs’ Vision for a Player-Led Rams Ballclub 14 The 411 Elsik’s Vasquez Has Turned a Curious Introduction Into a

The Pieces are in Place for ATHS Track to Make a Serious Dent in 20-6A 34 Starting Fresh HC Maple Begins Phase One in His Debut With Lions Softball 36 Field General Senior Fields Tasked with Rallying Alief Taylor to Distinction \\ By Matthew Ogle 37 Cool, Calm and Collected Alief Taylor’s Calderon Poised to Shape Program’s Turning Point \\ By Matthew Ogle 38 Back to Basics A New Chapter Opens as Jenkins Helms Alief Taylor Baseball 40 The Long Game Flakes Points to Golf’s Longevity and Lifestyle Appeal as Key Program Draws

Picture Perfect Alief ISD 2026 Spring Photo Feature

PREGAME

A District United Through Sports Across our district, athletics continue to thrive as a powerful reflection of teamwork, pride, and opportunity. With three high schools and six middle schools, our student-athletes are competing in a wide range of sports, and the momentum across our programs is something worth celebrating. At the high school level, we are winding down an exciting basketball season for both our boys’ and girls’ programs, with teams competing for the opportunity to advance into the playoffs. Their effort, perseverance, and growth throughout the season have been outstanding. At the middle school level, the basketball season recently concluded and did so with great success. Increased participation, improved skill development, and a genuine love for the game highlight the strong foundation being built for our future programs. As one season closes, others are gaining momentum. District play is underway for our boys’ and girls’ soccer teams, and expectations are high as they continue to compete and represent their schools with pride. Our boys and girls golf programs are also in season, providing student-athletes

another opportunity to compete, grow, and represent their schools with sportsmanship and discipline. Track and field teams are a few weeks away from getting started, and once again, we anticipate great performances and continued growth. Baseball and softball have begun practices, with participation numbers looking strong, our swimmers had a great district meet and will send a record number of competitors to the regional meet. Our tennis programs are fully up and running and we can’t wait to see the results of their hard work. None of this success happens without tremendous support behind the scenes. I would like to extend a sincere thank you to our maintenance department—especially Mr. Hector Charles and his crew—as well as our custodial staff, nutrition department, and police department. Their dedication ensures our facilities are safe, prepared, and welcoming for our athletes, coaches, and fans. We are also excited about the continued growth of our athletic facilities. The demolition of the press box at Crump Stadium is well underway, paving the way for a beautiful new press box that will be ready for next football season and serve our community for years to come. Like any successful team, athletics requires many moving parts working together. While the spotlight often shines on game nights, we remain committed every day to doing what is best for our student-athletes—supporting their development on and off the field. Finally, we invite our parents, families, and community members to come out and support our teams. Your presence in the stands makes a difference. Together, we can continue building an athletic culture rooted in pride, connection, and opportunity for every student-athlete in our district.

Sincerely, Ralph DeLaRosa Assistant Athletic Director

ISD Board of Trustees

Secretary

President

JANET SPURLOCK Vice-President

RICK MORENO

DR. DARLENE BREAUX

Trustee

Trustee

Trustee

ISAAC PEREZ

ANN WILLIAMS

Assistant Secretary

DR. LILY TRUONG

DR. GREGG PATRICK

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PREGAME

As we enter the final months of the school year, there is a strong sense of momentum across the district. This is the time when preparation meets performance, when perseverance is tested, and when the collective effort of students, staff, families, and community comes into focus. In Alief, athletics and fine arts are essential to the student experience. They are powerful extensions of the classroom—spaces where students develop discipline, teamwork, confidence, creativity, and leadership. On the field, on the court, on the stage, and in the studio, our students are learning what it means to commit to a goal, work through challenges, and represent their schools with pride. ALL IN WITH ALIEF: Finishing the School Year Strong

SOCIAL

@vypehouston /vypetexas

@vypetexas @vype.houston

VYPE STAFF PUBLISHER VYPE MEDIA, LLC CEO Derek Dusek CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Matt Malatesta CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel Tiller

ALIEF ISD PUBLICATION & VYPE LOGO MARK Meadowlark Creative • carrie@artbymeadowlark.com DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Bradley Collier CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Matt Powell, Jamey Wright, Alex Vinson

The final stretch of the year reminds us that success is never accidental. It is built through early mornings and long practices, rehearsals and repetition, encouragement after setbacks, and celebrations of hard-earned accomplishments. These experiences help shape well rounded students who are prepared not only for graduation, but for life beyond Alief ISD. Our students thrive because families are engaged—supporting them at home, cheering from the stands, and reinforcing the importance of balance, responsibility, and commitment. Our Parental Advisory Committee is an integral part of our Alief ISD story and it is through your support and insight that we have been able to accomplish as much as we have. Our students succeed because coaches, directors, and sponsors invest time, care, and high expectations into every student they serve. And they grow because our community continues to show up—by attending events, supporting programs, volunteering, and championing opportunities for all students. Thank you both! Student success in athletics and fine arts is a team effort. I would like to personally thank our amazing Athletics department leadership team: Marla, Ralph and Tomas-you always put our students first and provide them with the opportunities they need to be successful in every facet of their lives, and they are working to make Alief a powerhouse in Texas! As we close out the school year, we encourage our Alief community to remain engaged and connected. Attend a game and watch the progress of the new press box. Applaud a performance. Celebrate student achievements. Your support sends a powerful message to our students that their efforts matter and that their community stands behind them. We are Alief Proud of every student who competes with integrity, performs with confidence, and gives their best in everything they do. Together, let’s stay ALL IN WITH ALIEF and finish this school year strong—because when our community works together, our students succeed.

STAFF WRITER Matthew Ogle VIDEOGRAPHER Alex Hinson DIGITAL EDITOR Jackson DiPasquale VYPE INTERN Molly McCollum CONTACT INFORMATION MAILING ADDRESS: VYPE Media, LLC 1334 Brittmoore Road, Suite 2901 Houston, TX 77043 EMAIL: info@vypemedia.com

PHONE: 713-969-7105 WEBSITE: vype.com

VYPE is published by Vype Media, LLC. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission are prohibited. VYPE is not responsible for the return of unsolicited artwork, photography or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. All digital submissions and correspondence will become property of VYPE. EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. For editorial matters, please contact the editor. The views of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the policies of VYPE nor that of the publishers. VYPE has a clear commitment to inviting and publishing corrections of fact and clarifying errors of context. Corrections of errors and mistakes are a necessity in obtaining credibility in the magazine. VYPE supports and encourages our staff and contributing writers and photographers to make any potential error known to our editor. ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. The views and opinions of VYPE advertisers does not reflect that of VYPE High School Sports Magazine. In accordance with the NCAA Bylaws, VYPE and its advertisers have complied in all advertisements present in VYPE. SPECIAL THANKS A big “Thank You” to Space City Slingers for their help with the photo shoot at VYPE Media Day!

ON THE COVER Photo by BRADLEY COLLIER START YOUR ENGINES: (left to right) Hastings’ Braylon Hall, Elsik’s Catherine Vasquez, Taylor’s McKenzie Fields, Hastings’ Erik Calderon, Elsik’s Alexandra Brooks, Taylor’s Ever Calderon, Hastings’ Leesi Vi-Ura, Elsik’s Caius Shakes and Taylor’s McKale Lee are ready to roll this spring. With Appreciation, Dr. Anthony Mays Superintendent, Alief ISD #AliefProud

ALIEF ISD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

ALIEFISD.NET

@AliefISD /AliefISD @alief _ proud

SOCIAL

Alief ISD is Revving Up for Full-Throttle Spring ENGINES START YOUR

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PHOTO feature

PICTURE PERFECT Alief ISD 2026 Spring Photo Feature

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Joseph Benavides ELSIK

Courtney Thompson ELSIK

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Diego Castro ELSIK

Cayden Smith HASTINGS

Evan Simien TAYLOR

Kaden Mendenhall ELSIK

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Zainab Adegbite ELSIK

Christopher Thomas HASTINGS

Deborah Alvarez TAYLOR

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Davion Ridgeway TAYLOR

Gerardo Rodriguez HASTINGS

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Jacob Rodriguez ELSIK

Angie Chevalier TAYLOR

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Jenifer Fatoki ELSIK

Amari Dean TAYLOR

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MIGHTY RAMS

ELSIK HIGH

Alexandra Brooks

Caius Shakes

ElsikHigh School Est. 1975

BLUE STREAK

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ELSIK TRACK + FIELD Competitive Edge Continues to Define Elsik T&F NO DAYS OFF

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2026 Boys Track & Field

Jamar Bremberry

Chris Batekwa

Maiwand Mohammad

Our strength should be in our numbers, but I’m even more impressed by this team’s character. Success comes from the work you put in, and that’s what gives me confidence in this group. “ ” ~Coach Daric Zeno ELSIK BOYS TRACK & FIELD COACHES 10 \\ ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

CORNER

Hansel Ogboghodo

ELSIK TRACK + FIELD

FEATURE

2026 Girls Track & Field

E

Angie Orock

Ettalina Toe

The individual talent is there, and our discipline needs to match it. We’re fairly young across the board, so there will be learning moments, which makes leadership from our upperclassmen essential. “ ” ~Coach Jackie Kemp ELSIK GIRLS TRACK & FIELD vype.com \\ SPRING 2026 \\ CORNER

Aaliyah Montano-Matthews

COACHES

ALIEF ISD \\ 11

CHALLENGE RISING TO THE feature ELSIK SOFTBALL Salazar, Elsik Softball Seek to Top Last Year’s Playoff Milestone

2026 Elsik Softball

For once, our strength will be our experience. We have a senior-heavy roster, filled with girls who have seen the whole spectrum, from the humbling defeats to the thrilling wins. The challenge, now, is to stop being afraid of success in order to maintain it. “ ” ~Coach Jason Salazar ELSIK SOFTBALL COACHES 12 \\ ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

PLAYERS WATCH TO

in alphabetical order

Zainab Adegbite (Sr. IF) Kimora Shorter (Jr. IF) Catherine Vásquez (Sr. RHP/IF) CORNER

Coach Jason Salazar

ELSIK SOFTBALL

FEATURE

Arayiah Lute

Kimora Carroll

Kimora Shorter

Thania Lopez

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feature ELSIK SOFTBALL THE 411 Elsik’s Vasquez Has Turned a Curious Introduction Into a Passion for Softball \\ By Matt Malatesta

VYPE: Softball … when did you fall in love with the sport? VASQUEZ: “It’s a funny story. I used to watch Good Luck, Charlie all the time. There was an episode where they were playing softball, and it looked like so much fun. I told my mom about it and she signed me up the next day — that was in seventh grade. That show got me hooked, and I grew to love the sport.” VYPE: Fast forward to now — what’s your favorite show? VASQUEZ: “That’s easy — Stranger Things. I love anything from the 1980s. I tell my mom all the time how lucky she was to grow up in the ’80s. You could ride your bike or walk around the neighborhood and not worry about a thing.” VASQUEZ: “My mom. It’s just me and her. She suffers from asthma, and I help her as much as I can. I’ve been driving since I was 13 to run errands or go to the store. I also love my grandma — she has diabetes, and I help inject her insulin. Taking care of them has built my passion for becoming a nurse someday. I’m a very good caregiver.” VYPE: What would your teammates say about you? VASQUEZ: “I’m a quiet leader — I don’t boss people around or yell to get my point across. That’s not me. I’m also very hard on myself, so they’d probably say I’m passionate about the sport and a hard worker.” VASQUEZ: “Girls are very sensitive with our thoughts and feelings. To be a good teammate, you have to be accepting and understanding. Being in tune with everyone’s emotions and keeping everyone involved is key to having a good team. I’ve learned so much about myself through sports.” VYPE: What are your passions outside of softball? VYPE: What have you learned about being part of a team? VYPE: What are you trying to accomplish this season? VASQUEZ: “I want my opponents and my teammates to see how much work I’ve put in and how much I’ve improved. That’s all the validation I need.”

CATHERINE VASQUEZ IS ON THE CUSP OF A BREAKOUT YEAR. The Elsik senior pitcher has put in countless hours this offseason with one goal in mind — taking her game to the college level. After helping lead the Rams to the postseason, Vasquez has her sights set higher in 2026. But her story goes beyond the diamond. At its core, it’s about family, responsibility, and heart. We caught up with Vasquez in the Elsik dugout to talk softball, life, and what truly makes her tick in our 411 Feature.

Catherine Vasquez

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FEATURE ELSIK BASEBALL THE DUGOUT A DIFFERENT PATH TO Tubbs Ushering In a Brand New Vision for Elsik Baseball \\ By Matt Malatesta

That was my dream. I failed — and it hurt.” Tubbs returned home to Houston and had to start over. “That’s baseball,” he said. “You’re going to fail, and you have to be resilient.” He coached briefly at his alma mater and with Perfect Game programs, but for nearly a decade, baseball wasn’t his profession. Instead, Tubbs became a therapist for the Mental Health & Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County. “I worked with the homeless, juvenile offenders, and people with severe mental illnesses,” he said. “It was extremely tough work.” That experience now defines his coaching philosophy. “I learned to compartmentalize,” Tubbs said. “I couldn’t bring the work home. I left it at work, woke up the next day, and tried to do better than the day before.” It’s a lesson he passes directly to his players.

“Every time we break out as a team, it’s: 1, 2, 3 — Playoffs.” Those are lofty goals for a program that has gone 14–68 over the last three seasons — a team without a true locker room, an equipment closet, or a clear identity. Tubbs isn’t shying away from that reality. “We stripped it all down,” he said. “The first thing was preaching that we can compete with anyone we play. Our staff believes in these guys. We’ve seen tremendous growth during the fall and offseason. We hit the weight room and broke fundamentals down by position. Our pitchers are stronger. Our defense has vastly improved. We’re on our way.” Tubbs’ baseball journey includes an unexpected chapter. After college, he earned several Major League tryouts, chasing the dream every ballplayer knows. “I’ll never forget being cut at a Florida Marlins camp,” he said. “I wanted to get to the league.

THERE’S A NEWFOUND BUZZ AROUND ELSIK BASEBALL, AND IT STARTS WITH FIRST-YEAR HEAD COACH VERNON TUBBS. Tubbs and his staff are breathing life into a program that, frankly, wasn’t even on the radar — sometimes even inside its own school. “I had teachers in the hall who didn’t even know we had a baseball team,” Tubbs said. A three-year starter at Prairie View A&M, Tubbs has taken on the role of promoter, builder, and culture-setter all at once. “I’ve been a ringmaster of sorts, just promoting the program within the walls of Elsik High School,” he said. “My staff is made up of college baseball guys, and we have a plan. We don’t just want to win a few district games and sneak into the playoffs. We want to beat the best teams in this district — Foster, Fulshear, Strake Jesuit — and become a power. I can see it.” The team’s new rally cry?

“ ”

We don’t just want to win a few district games and sneak into the playoffs. We want to beat the best teams in this district.

Coach Vernon Tubbs

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ELSIK BASEBALL

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Tubbs’ Vision for a Player-Led Rams Ballclub THE PLATE STEPPING UP TO

2026 Elsik Baseball

Our seniors are going to set the pace for this team. They’ve bought in since I’ve been here, leading summer practices that carried into an impressive fall series. Everything has been intentional for them—every practice, every rep, every moment matters. “ ” ~Coach Vernon Tubbs ELSIK BASEBALL COACHES 16 \\ ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

Joseph Agamah (So. 3B/RHP) Joseph Benavides (Sr. RHP) Leve Gonzalez (Sr. 1B) PLAYERS WATCH TO CORNER in alphabetical order

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ELSIK BASEBALL

FEATURE

Anthony Dominguez

DeShawn Laws

Diego Rosas

José Cardona

Leve Gonzalez

Joseph Agamah

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NEWS

ALIEF ISD

YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE STARTS HERE! ENROLL NOW

Expert Educators Alief ISD’s dedicated teachers and staff are committed to student success, providing top tier instruction and support every step of the way.

Innovative Choices From STEM to Performing and Visual Arts programs, Alief ISD offers diverse learning opportunities tailored to your child’s future.

Inclusive Community In Alief ISD, every student is valued and supported. We embrace diversity and create a welcoming environment where all learners can thrive. Your child has a place here.

Alief Independent School District is now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year! Give your child the advantage of learning in a district known for innovation, excellence, and opportunity.

14051 Bellaire Blvd. Suite 200 Houston, TX 77083

281-498-8110 x83100

www.aliefisd.net/enroll

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FIGHTING BEARS

HASTINGS HIGH

Braylon Hall

Hastings High School Est. 1972

GOLD RUSH

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HASTINGS TRACK + FIELD

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BUILT FOR SPEED Hastings Track Poised to Unlock Its Potential

WHILE LAST SEASON’S DISTRICT 20-6A RESULTS HIGHLIGHTED CLEAR AREAS FOR GROWTH, INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES OFFERED PLENTY OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR HASTINGS ENTERING THE SPRING. On the girls side, Leesi Vi-Ura returns after a standout junior campaign that included a bronze medal in the 200-meter dash and a trip to the Area Meet. Fellow senior Sanai Love should further strengthen those numbers, while also providing upside in the sprints. The boys are anchored by senior Braylon Hall, who finished second in the 400 meters last year and advanced to Area. Meanwhile, senior Christopher Thomas, junior David Abolade, and sophomore Christian Collins round out a group of front-runners expected to factor heavily into Hastings’ point totals this season.

Sanai Love

Christian Collins

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HASTINGS TRACK + FIELD

FEATURE

2026 Hastings Track & Field

David Abolade

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HASTINGS TRACK + FIELD

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SUPERSONIC Tempo and Fearlessness Power Vi-Ura for Hastings Track & Field

\\ By Matthew Ogle

LEESI VI-URA IS NEARING THE FINAL STRETCH OF HER SENIOR YEAR AS ONE OF THE MOST VERSATILE SPRINTERS IN DISTRICT 20-6A, AND HASTINGS WILL UNDOUBTEDLY LOOK TO HER AS A FRONT-RUNNER. A STANDOUT IN BOTH INDIVIDUAL EVENTS AND RELAYS, VI-URA HAS CONSISTENTLY MADE HER PRESENCE FELT IN HIGH-STAKES COMPETITION, AND THIS SPRING PROMISES TO BE NO DIFFERENT. Last season, Vi-Ura finished third in the 200-meter dash at the 20-6A Meet with a time of 25.28 seconds, advancing to the Area Meet while also contributing as a key leg on the Lady Bears’ relay team. Though not a personal best, her performance highlighted her knack for resilience — a quality that has become a hallmark of her high school career. “Track is my first and only sport,” Vi-Ura said. “It all began the summer before 8th grade, when my brother encouraged me to get involved in athletics. So, I started practicing and enjoyed the training. Once I took everything seriously, it just clicked, and I ended up winning the district in middle school.” Her brother, Golden Vi-Ura, who competed in football and track at Hastings before graduating in 2017, remains a significant influence. “He was always my biggest supporter,” Leesi said. “He’d go to my track meets if he was able, pay for my AAU training and events, and continue to give me advice on the technique of my races. But above everything else, he taught me to never give up in the end, which has helped me push through a lot and trust myself when I compete.” Varsity track comes with its challenges, she noted. “It doesn’t take much to weigh yourself down, mentally, when you’re going against a bunch of other people. You can’t do your best when fear or nervousness gets in the way, so that’s something that can make this sport challenging,” she said. Still, the highs of the sport outweigh the struggles. “The support that my teammates and I give each other makes it all worth it,” she said. “Also, there’s usually a rush you get from winning or setting a new PR that is hard to beat.” Off the track, Vi-Ura balances a part-time job at Sonic with downtime spent watching shows like Martin or horror movies such as I Know What You Did Last Summer. Beyond high school, she hopes to continue running in college while pursuing a degree in dental hygiene or psychology. Combining speed, grit, and a bold approach to competition, Vi-Ura enters her senior season ready to leave her own mark on Hastings’ program and set the tone for the team’s future.

Leesi Vi-Ura

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FEATURE HASTINGS BASEBALL PITCHING FAMILIA Erick Calderon’s Journey to Hastings FOR

\\ By Matt Malatesta

ERICK CALDERON FOUND HIS FAMILY — AND HIS FRIEND GROUP — ON THE BASEBALL DIAMOND. The Hastings senior pitcher enters his final season with three years of varsity experience and is woven deeply into the fabric of the Bears’ program. Born in Cuba, having lived in Mexico, and then moving to the United States during elementary school, Calderon’s journey has been defined by resilience, adaptation, and belief. “Erick is a delight to be around,” head coach Andres Torres said. “He’s like an assistant coach on the field and in the dugout. He’s a motivator, a cheerleader — just a great teammate.” Calderon didn’t discover baseball until his freshman year of high school, a late start by most standards. “I was in football, and it just wasn’t for me,” Calderon said. “I would stay after practice and watch the baseball team. I talked to my football coach, and he encouraged me to give baseball a try. That switch changed my life.” Since then, Calderon has worked tirelessly to develop on the mound, making significant strides in both velocity and command. “When I’m pitching, I clear my mind — it’s just me and my catcher,” he said. “I focus on the next pitch. I have a goldfish mentality. I forget what happened a pitch ago and lock into what’s happening now. That’s my strength.” Through every transition and challenge, one constant has remained — his mother, Elisa. “She’s my everything,” Calderon said. “It’s just been me and her from the beginning. Adapting to American life hasn’t always been easy, but we work through it together. We lean on each other.” He leans just as heavily on his teammates. “My team is my family,” he said. “When I’m going through something, they’re there for me. I can tell them anything. Coach Torres is more than a coach — he’s a huge influence in my life. He might not even know how much.” So when Calderon toes the rubber this season, he’s pitching for more than wins or statistics. He’s throwing for his family, his teammates, and the journey that brought him here — for his familia. I have a goldfish mentality. I forget what happened a pitch ago and lock into what’s happening now. “ ”

Erick Calderon

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HASTINGS BASEBALL

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THROUGH THICK & THIN The Bears Will Use Experience to Counter Adversity On the Diamond 2026 Hastings Baseball

COACHES Every year is a fresh start. We have a solid mix of returners, including six seniors with plenty of varsity experience, alongside a talented younger class. The goal is to compete through each phase. We may hit a few bumps early, but by the time district rolls around, we hope to be ready to roll. “

PLAYERS WATCH TO

in alphabetical order

Erick Calderon (Sr. RHP) Bryan Cruz (Sr. C) Gerardo Peña (Sr. OF) Aldo Villegas (Sr. SS) CORNER

H

” ~Coach Andres Torres HASTINGS BASEBALL

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HASTINGS BASEBALL

FEATURE

Aldo Villegas

Bryan Cruz

Eleazar Rangel

Gerardo Peña

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HASTINGS SOFTBALL

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BRINGING THE HEAT

Rivalry and Ambition Igniting Hastings Softball

2026 Hastings Softball

COACHES It’s been great getting to know the girls. Even though this was our first time meeting, they know I’ve played softball too, so there’s already a lot of camaraderie. We’re family-style — we win together, lose together, work hard, play hard, rumble, and fight. Everything we do is together. We’re ready to get started and show everyone what we’ve got. “ ” ~Coach Tyara Salinas HASTINGS SOFTBALL 26 \\ ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

PLAYERS WATCH TO Jayvia Black (Jr. OF) Daniela Carrizales (Jr. OF) Maelaya Jones (Sr. SS) Jasmine Reyes (So. RHP) Cayden Smith (Jr. 1B) CORNER in alphabetical order

Coach Tyara Salinas

HASTINGS SOFTBALL

FEATURE

Daniela Carrizales

Jasmine Reyes

Jayvia Black

Maelaya Jones

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HASTINGS GOLF

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Veterans Continue to Represent the Development of Hastings Golf BREAKING PAR HASTINGS’ GOLF PROGRAM IS STILL GROWING, BUT PARTICIPATION CONTINUES TO SHOW

PROMISE, WITH STUDENT-ATHLETES SIGNALING AN INTEREST TO COMPETE AND DEVELOP THEIR GAME. The Bears are led by seniors Chiamaka Okeibunor and Eyli Roe, who hope to make a mark at the district level and beyond come April.

2026 Hastings Golf

Chiamaka Okeibunor

Eyli Roe

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NEWS

ALIEF ISD

ALIEF INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

ALIEF international Parade the 3rd CELEBRATING THE DIVERSITY OF OUR ALIEF COMMUNITY

APRIL 25 2026

8:30 AM

START ALIEF HNGC

END ALIEF AUXILIARY FIELD (PARKING LOT) 6220 S DAIRY ASHFORD RD. HOUSTON, TX 77072

(PARKING LOT) 6750 COOK RD. HOUSTON, TX 77072

Alief ISD campuses and departments will compete for Best Thematic Float or Group, Most Entertaining Performance, and Best Community Spirit. Winners of the trophies will be announced during Taste of Alief.

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NEWS

ALIEF ISD

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ROARING LIONS

TAYLOR HIGH

McKale Lee

in THE FAST LANE

Taylor High School Est. 2001

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TRACK + FIELD

FEATURE

OFF TO THE RACES The Pieces are in Place for ATHS Track to Make a Serious Dent in 20-6A

2026 Taylor Girls Track & Field

2026 Taylor Boys Track & Field

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TRACK + FIELD

FEATURE

perimeter, and juniors Angie Chevalier and Destinee Leonard are expected to play key roles in the relays. Sophomore Alexis Guidry also looks poised to continue establishing herself within the district. The boys’ lineup is anchored by speed, with Quam Olaniyi, Nikolas Johnson, Evan Simien, and Benjamin Amoko forming a strong sprint group. In the throws, Olasubomi Fagbamila and Dillian Whiteside give the Lions valuable scoring potential in the shot put.

DEPTH ACROSS DISCIPLINES HAS QUIETLY POSITIONED ALIEF TAYLOR TO BE A FACTOR THIS SPRING, WITH BOTH THE BOYS AND GIRLS SQUADS FEATURING ATHLETES CAPABLE OF DELIVERING POINTS IN A VARIETY OF EVENTS. On the girls’ side, senior McKale Lee returns as a proven force after claiming gold in the 800 meters at last year’s District 20-6A meet, while Omotola Oguns adds experience in the field events after finishing second in the shot put. Sprinter Josephine Faneye provides speed on the

Olasubomi Fagbamila

Dillian Whiteside Alexis Guidry

Destinee Leonard

Nikolas Johnson & Benjamin Amoko

Omotola Oguns

Quam Olaniyi

Josephine Faneye

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TAYLOR SOFTBALL

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HC Maple Begins Phase One in His Debut With the Lions STARTING FRESH

2026 Taylor Softball

I think there needs to be a bit of a cultural reset within the program. Things have been run well at Taylor, but there’s still room for growth, which I’m hoping to see in my first season. That starts with building our numbers and establishing something bigger long-term. “ COACHES

PLAYERS WATCH TO

in alphabetical order

CORNER Deborah Alvarez (Jr. RHP) McKenzie Fields (Sr. C/IF) Mia Flores (Jr. C/IF)

” ~Coach Chris Maple TAYLOR SOFTBALL

Coach Chris Maple

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TAYLOR SOFTBALL

FEATURE

Dayanara Caceres

Darlin Cornejo

Jabria Burton

Mia Flores

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TAYLOR SOFTBALL

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FIELD GENERAL Senior Fields Tasked with Rallying Alief Taylor to Distinction

\\ By Matthew Ogle

McKenzie Fields

SOFTBALL HAS A WAY OF REVEALING ITS LEADERS IN THE SILENT MOMENTS — BETWEEN PITCHES, DURING MOUND VISITS, AND IN THE SPACES WHERE MOMENTUM CAN SLIP. WITHIN THE ALIEF TAYLOR PROGRAM, THAT RESPONSIBILITY OFTEN SETTLES BEHIND THE PLATE, WHERE MCKENZIE FIELDS SERVES AS BOTH ANCHOR AND VOICE. The senior catcher enters her final spring as a cornerstone and collegiate signee, bringing a presence sculpted by accountability and years of experience. Recently signed to Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama, she embodies the type of leadership the Lions will lean on as they navigate a challenging district slate under new head coach Chris Maple. Growing up as the youngest of four sisters, the path in the sport almost felt predetermined for Fields. “Watching my older sisters play definitely had an influence on me,” Fields said. “It felt natural to follow in their footsteps — even being a catcher, just like they were. From there, I’ve just picked up a drive to play collegiately, which has pushed me to this point.” That drive now carries added weight for a Taylor roster still searching for consistency within a demanding district. The Lions finished fifth in the standings last spring, but the arrival of Maple has injected optimism into the offseason — and Fields is positioned at the center of that transition. Nowhere is her impact felt more than at home base, a role she embraces with both authority and accountability. “You really have to own the field when you’re in that spot,” Fields said. “That’s your plate. That’s your defense. That’s your responsibility. Sometimes, there will just be bad games. But the loudest voice on the field still needs to come from the catcher, and that energy has to be kept up so the team doesn’t stay down.” That mindset — vocal, resilient, and team-first — mirrors what initially drew Fields to Oakwood. When the opportunity presented itself, the decision came easily. “I’ve always been drawn to a future in Alabama for some reason,” she said. “So once they reached out to me, I didn’t hesitate. The softball team is very close-knit and resembles a family, which is something I’m most passionate about and really look forward to.” As her high school career approaches its final chapter, Fields’ focus remains rooted in the present. Experience has taught her that nothing is guaranteed, but belief can still move a program forward. “The goal is to go out with a bang,” Fields said. “There’s usually plenty to strive for early on in the season, so I intend to make it count. Ideally, the team collectively finds a way to make it work and, hopefully, reach the playoffs.” For Taylor, that pursuit begins with a catcher who understands the weight of every pitch — and the power of her voice behind it.

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ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

FEATURE TAYLOR BASEBALL COLLECTED

COOL, CALM AND

\\ By Matthew Ogle Alief Taylor’s Calderon Poised to Shape Program’s Turning Point

Willowridge. Moments like those don’t come often, so you have to savor it when they do.” From a team standpoint, Calderon has a clear picture in mind as the Lions look to get a competitive streak started. “It starts with discipline and commitment,” he said. “We have the dependable players we need to win, so this is our chance to start putting it together with a new coach.” As for what comes next, Calderon remains focused on both his athletic and professional future. “Hopefully, I can begin to get scouted for baseball and start to make a career out of it,” he said. “If not, the plan is to go to a trade school, get a certification in HVAC, and go right into the job field.” But in the short term, Calderon’s attention remains on the season ahead — defined by opportunity.

That fandom still shows today, with Calderon citing Astros stars Jeremy Peña, Yordan Álvarez, and Jose Altuve among the players he has admired. Like many young athletes, Calderon’s early years came with growing pains. “It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been able to trust in my ability more as the years have gone by,” Calderon said. “Going from middle school ball to high school varsity as a freshman, I was very nervous. But the more I played, I just got used to the rhythm.” That confidence culminated in one of the defining moments of his high school career a year ago – a campaign that saw the RHP receive an all-district honorable mention. “There have been multiple highlights in my time at Alief Taylor,” Calderon said. “But I’d have to say that my favorite one was throwing a perfect-game shutout last season against

MOMENTUM AND BELIEF ARE BEGINNING TO TAKE SHAPE AT ALIEF TAYLOR AS THE LIONS MOVE TOWARD A NEW SEASON — AND EVER CALDERON FIGURES TO BE RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF IT. Contributing on both the mound and in the infield, Calderon heads into his senior season at a pivotal moment for the ballclub. The Lions are still working to reestablish themselves in the district conversation, but the team has an opportunity to start piecing wins together under first-year head coach Arthur Jenkins. The game has not always been part of Calderon’s life, but once it entered the picture, it quickly became a driving force. “Baseball first became a passion of mine when I watched the 2017 Astros win the World Series, which made me want to start playing,” Calderon said. “I’m usually a competitive person, so my drive to be the best has kept me in that pursuit.”

“ ”

I’m usually a competitive person, so my drive to be the best has kept me in that pursuit.

Ever Calderon

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TAYLOR BASEBALL

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BACK TO BASICS A New Chapter Opens as Jenkins Helms Alief Taylor Baseball

2026 Taylor Baseball

Seasoned Blend of Returning Figures Likely to Put ATHS Hoops Back In the Running

Hard work, dedication, discipline, and desire are the principles I want to lay the foundation for this year, and our seniors will help drive that standard. I’ve gained a lot of experience as both a player and a coach, but this will be my first opportunity to coach baseball. I’m excited to see how it unfolds. “ ” ~Coach Arthur Jenkins TAYLOR BASEBALL COACHES 38 \\ ALIEF ISD \\ SPRING 2026 \\ vype.com

PLAYERS WATCH TO in alphabetical order

CORNER Ever Calderon (Sr. RHP/SS) Jordan Criss (Sr. OF/RHP) Azlin Gonzalez (Sr. OF)

Coach Arthur Jenkins

TAYLOR BASEBALL

FEATURE

Azlin Gonzalez

Jordan Criss

Jerrin Mikel

Leonaardo Quiroz

Me Khi Thomas

ALIEF ISD \\ 39

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TAYLOR GOLF

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Flakes Points to Golf’s Longevity and Lifestyle Appeal as Key Program Draws THE LONG GAME

2026 Taylor Golf

Chisimdi Onwuchekwa

Lonnie Davis

COACHES

“

CORNER

Unlike other sports, where your prime naturally fades, golf is one where players often improve with age. There’s nothing like being on the course—the sun, the grass, the golf carts—they don’t get to experience that every day. That, along with the personal growth the game provides, are some of the biggest draws of the program.

Coach Justin Flakes

PLAYERS WATCH TO

in alphabetical order

” ~Coach Justin Flakes TAYLOR GOLF

Lonnie Davis (Sr.) Chisimdi Onwuchekwa (Sr.) Davion Ridgeway (Sr.)

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NEWS

ALIEF ISD

SCHOOL OF CHOICE APPLICATIONS for the 2026-2027 School Year OPEN NOW! APPLY AT HTTPS://CHOICE.ALIEFISD.NET/

CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATION CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATION Save the Date!

AECHS THURSDAY MAY 28, 2026 4 PM HOUSTON CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

KERR HS THURSDAY MAY 28, 2026 7 PM HOUSTON CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

ELSIK HS FRIDAY MAY 29, 2026 7 PM MERRELL CENTER

TAYLOR HS SATURDAY MAY 30, 2026 9 AM MERRELL CENTER

HASTINGS HS SATURDAY MAY 30, 2026 2 PM MERRELL CENTER

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