TWCA Winter 2024-25

THE WOODLANDS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

TWCA .NET

Winter Edition 2024-25

TWCA Looking for Big-Time Performances this Winter CENTER STAGE

PREGAME

Warrior Nation, We are moving fast and furious through the 2024-25 school year! Warrior Athletics at The Woodlands Christian Academy allows our students to grow spiritually, emotionally, and physically while glorifying our Lord Jesus Christ. The student-athletes who partici pate in our programs are afforded the opportunity to face adversity and

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build strong character and grit. Additionally, athletic competitions enrich our campus culture and provide a framework for develop ing student and community spirit. We invite our Warrior Nation to come out and enjoy a game. Come and see the growth of these students before your eyes! The Warrior coaches and community thank you for your support. We couldn’t do it without you! Blessings, Randy Hollas Athletic Director

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THE WOODLANDS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

TWCA .NET

Winter Edition 2024-25

ON THE COVER Photo by BRADLEY COLLIER CENTER STAGE: Howie Keene, Addie Buck, Josh Endler, Virginia Finley, Kate Murphy and Nick Brashear headline the Warrior winter season.

TWCA Looking for Big-Time Performances this Winter CENTER STAGE

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BOYS BASKETBALL

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UPHOLDING THE STANDARD Warriors Loaded with a Championship-Caliber Roster

2024-25 Warrior Boys Basketball

(Montana State-commit) and Nick Brashear (Colorado College) will be the top contributors on the scoreboard, while facilitating the flow of the game. They’re complemented by the talents of Landon Harris (Sr. F), Trey Pinkard (So. G), Tommy Klein (Sr. F), and Grand Oaks-transfer Trevion Ogburn (Sr. F), among others. “The Warrior Way” is back in full force in 2025, which should keep audiences on their feet.

TWCA RETURNS WITH A VENGEANCE, AFTER A REMARKABLE SEASON UNDER THE DIRECTION OF FIRST-YEAR HEAD COACH JASON TOCABENS, WHICH SAW THEM GO 27-8 EN ROUTE TO AN APPEARANCE IN THE TAPPS-5A TITLE GAME. Gold is always the standard for this squad, and after being narrowly defeated by Midland Christian a year ago, the Warriors will be emboldened for another crack at the league’s top prize. This roster is filled to the brim with star-power, as all-state selections Howie Keene

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BOYS BASKETBALL

Landon Harris

Jack Krantzcke

Trevion Ogburn

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BEING THIRD

Multiple Factors Have Shaped Nick Brashear, both On and Off the Court

\\ By Matthew Ogle

Nick Brashear

His focus on culture is undoubtedly influenced by his upbringing. “Having been here since eighth grade, I’ve essentially matured through this experience,” he said. “We live by the mantra ‘Be Third,’ which is related to a Bible study program we do every day after school. I’m sure others have heard of it, but the saying goes, ‘Put God first, others second, and yourself third.’ “Obviously, it’s something we emphasize here, and I believe it has really helped me grow in my faith and become a stronger Christian, thanks to the community that has been built here. That positivity extends into basketball as well. I have met some of my best friends here, and I attribute it all to TWCA.” Brashear also cherishes memories beyond his academic journey. “Last year’s State Tournament ranks among the best memories I’ve had with this team,” he reflected. “I’ve taken on a bigger role over the years, but reaching that point with my teammates—the hotel room experience at State when we buzzed our manager’s hair—that’s what really sticks with you. I hope we can create more moments like that this year.” If all goes well, Brashear believes he and the Warriors may soon hoist the program’s first championship trophy since 2021.

THE TWCA WARRIORS FINISHED THE 2023-2024 SEASON AS THE TAPPS-5A STATE RUNNER-UPS, HAVING BEEN DEFEATED BY MIDLAND CHRISTIAN WITH A SCORE OF 55-39 IN THE FINAL. While much attention was focused on the now-graduated Tres Luzey and current Montana State-commit Howie Keene during their exceptional run, Nick Brashear also deserves recognition. As a junior, Brashear earned a spot on the first-team all district roster for his performance in 2024 and received an all-state honorable mention. But where did Brashear’s journey in basketball begin? “I think what got me into basketball comes from my family,” he said. “My brother started playing at a young age, and I would always hang out with him growing up. Also, I’ve been a huge Kentucky fan since both my parents went there. We were raised on Kentucky basketball. Like many others, I just fell in love with the game. I’ve been addicted to it—the competitive nature of it all.” This “addiction” has earned Brashear the opportunity to continue his playing career at Colorado College, a commitment he announced in October. “I was really looking for a place with a solid basketball program that also emphasized academics,” he explained. “Among all the options I had, I felt that Colorado College was the best fit for me. I’ll likely study Business or Economics, just like my dad and brother did. That was the culture I was looking for.”

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GIRLS BASKETBALL

THE SELFLESS SENIOR Buck Plays for More Than Herself

\\ By Matt Malatesta

Addie Buck

ADDIE BUCK HAS BEEN A GUIDING LIGHT FOR THE TWCA GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TEAM OVER THE PAST FOUR SEASONS. While wins and losses are part of the game, Buck’s focus is on something far greater. “The reason I play is for my teammates,” the senior explained. “We have so much fun together—whether it’s grabbing food before games or enjoying the bus rides. I love doing something for them, not just for myself.” She continued, “The away tournaments are a highlight for me. We get to hang out, bond, and come back from those weekends feeling so much closer as a team.” This selfless mindset has made Buck the go-to leader for the Warriors this season. rewarding to witness as a coach,” said head coach Matt Reese. “She’s such an important part of what we want to accomplish as a team.” An honorable mention selection last year, Buck is also looking ahead to her next chapter off the court: college. “I would love to go to Auburn to pursue a hospitality or culinary degree,” she shared. “Or I could see myself at Texas A&M studying business. I’ve got to make a decision in the next few months.” For now, Buck is fully embracing her final season wearing the green and gold. Reflecting on her journey, she shared some advice for younger players: “The advice I would give to girls coming into high school is to not overthink everything,” she said. “Sometimes you have to go with the flow and not worry about what others think. Make your own path.” And she certainly has. “Her growth as a player and teammate has been incredibly

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GIRLS BASKETBALL ON A MISSION Young Twca Girls Hoop Squad Looks to Re-Enter District Conversation

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2024-25 Warrior Girls Basketball

pick Blakely Olson (Jr. G) and all-district honorable mention Addie Buck (Sr. G) provide the star-power, while Icelynn Ayers (Jr. F), Elaina Trevathan (So. F), Bella Orr (So. G), and sophomore Grace Fadahunsi (Soph.) step into expanded roles. They might have some growing pains, but that won’t stop the Warriors from attempting to make their first playoff appearance since 2022.

THE WARRIORS EXPERIENCED SOMEWHAT OF A “DOWN-YEAR” LAST WINTER, BUT STILL REMAINED COMPETITIVE AGAINST THEIR DISTRICT COUNTERPARTS. Head coach Matthew Reese will see to it that the team continues to trend upward in 2025, despite having a relatively young rotation on the floor. Given that fact, TWCA’s veterans should elevate the group. Second-team, all-district

Blakely Olson

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GIRLS BASKETBALL

Elaina Trevathan

Icelynn Ayers

Irelynn Ayers

Allison Gonzales

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TWCA NEWS

TWCA Warrior Boosters promotes school spirit and provides support to the Athletic and Fine Arts Programs. To join Warrior Boosters, visit twca.net/boosters. Thank You to Our Sponsors!

WARRIOR BOOSTERS PRESENTING SPONSOR

WARRIOR BOOSTERS WINTER SEASON SPONSOR

BANNER SPONSORS

Ameriprise Financial The Brown Family Compass Drywall

Mustard Seed Realtors Kara Powell Photography The Republic Grille

The Rodriguez Family Sovran Water The Head Team/Texas Premier Mortgage-Steve Head

Sponsors as of December 4, 2024

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TWCA NEWS

VICTORY SPONSORS

The Hook Family The Klein Family

BIBLER FINNEY PANFIL PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP of Wells Fargo Advisors

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SUPPORTER SPONSORS

The Tillman Family

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BOYS SOCCER ON THE RISE Warrior Soccer Looking Tough Entering 2025

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2024-25 Warrior Boys Soccer

attacking front, after scoring 21 goals and receiving an all-state honorable mention a year ago. He will be supported by junior winger Josh Endler – who was a first-team, all-district selection – as well as junior midfielders Bronson Ward (first-team) and Justin Furnace. Meanwhile, first-teamer Hudson Howard (Sr.) and Lucas Finley (Sr.) will anchor the TWCA back-line.

LAST WINTER SAW ONE OF THE MOST EFFICIENT PERFORMANCES SEEN FROM THE TWCA BOYS SOCCER PROGRAM IN YEARS PAST, AS THEY WENT 16-10-2 (9-5 IN DISTRICT) OVERALL AND MADE AN APPEARANCE IN THE TAPPS-DII POSTSEASON. Now, coach Chris White and company have even loftier ambitions heading into 2025. Senior striker Jose Barrios will command the Warriors’

Lucas Finley

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Justin Furnace

José Barrios

Bryce Hunnicutt

Bronson Ward

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MOVE-IN MAGIC Endler Could Be the Missing Piece to Propel TWCA On the Pitch

\\ By Matthew Ogle

Joshua Endler

as a unit. Since coming here, I’ve become stronger and faster physically. But more importantly, I’ve become smarter, which is the greatest asset you can have on the field.” Endler’s presence, along with contributions from teammates like Jose Barrios, Hudson Howard, Justin Furnace, and Bronson Ward, has revitalized the Warriors’ program. The team posted an impressive 16-10-2 record last season and returned to the TAPPS II postseason in 2024. However, after last year’s early exit in the Area Round, Endler and the Warriors have their sights set higher this winter. “We’re going to be more developed and conditioned than other teams,” Endler said confidently. “That’s an area I think we’ll dominate. We also have a lot of new players who will boost the team alongside those who have already proven themselves. Every aspect of our game will be covered.” With a roster brimming with talent and a clear game plan, Endler and the Warriors have all the makings of a championship caliber team. Don’t be surprised if TWCA makes a run to the TAPPS Final Four—or beyond—in the coming months.

SOCCER IS A FICKLE SPORT. ONE YEAR, YOU MIGHT HAVE A CHAMPIONSHIP-CALIBER TEAM; THE NEXT, YOU COULD FIND YOURSELF SCRAPING THE BOTTOM OF THE STANDINGS. For The Woodlands Christian Academy, the tide seems to be turning in their favor. The Warriors are assembling a squad full of exceptional athletes poised to make a deep postseason run. One standout in this talented group is Joshua Endler. As a sophomore, Endler played a crucial role in TWCA’s playoff push, earning first-team all-district honors. Now a junior, the winger’s journey with the Warriors has been short but impactful. Surprisingly, Endler only joined TWCA two years ago, transferring from Crossbar Academy in Tomball. “I was initially drawn to TWCA because of the academics and the mindset of the school,” Endler explained. “The team and community had a strong culture, and now I see how many resources it provides to help me grow as a person.” On the pitch, Endler credits TWCA for shaping him into a smarter, more well-rounded player. “It all goes back to the culture,” he said. “We develop together

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2024-25 Warrior Girls Soccer

Softball-commit), and Kayden Edmunds (Jr. MF) to provide the veteran leadership for a youthful rotation that’s mainly composed of underclassmen. This mix of veterans and youthful talent will look to gain valuable experience in the pre-season before their playoff push begins in January.

TWCA WILL LOOK TO BOUNCE BACK THIS YEAR AFTER NARROWLY MISSING OUT ON THE PLAYOFFS IN 2024. Fortunately, the Warriors return numerous starters from the past season who can help the team see that goal come to fruition. Coach Paige Riley will expect Kate Worthington (second-team, all-district selection), Kate Murphy (Sr. CB), Alexis Osterhaus (Army

Victoria Wilson

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GIRLS SOCCER

Megan Endler

Alexis Osterhaus

Kate Worthington

Callie Davison

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MAKING HERSTORY Murphy Learning Life Lessons from the Beautiful Game

\\ By Matt Malatesta

Kate Murphy

service projects, like food drives, working with foster kids, Bible studies, and even helping with the IRONMAN in The Woodlands. It’s about making a difference in the community.” Her selflessness is a recurring theme in both her present activities and future aspirations. Murphy plans to pursue a career in health care.

FOR KATE MURPHY, SOCCER WASN’T ALWAYS PART OF HER STORY. Or maybe it was destined to be. The senior center-back anchors the Warriors’ defense, but her soccer journey only began as a sophomore. “I used to cheer and do gymnastics,” she said with a laugh. “Most of my friends were playing soccer, and it looked fun. I picked it up because of them, but it’s taught me so much more than I expected. I’ve struggled with anxiety growing up, which also leads to OCD. I’m wired to want everything to be perfect, but soccer has helped me realize that perfection isn’t possible. It’s about working toward a bigger goal, not just focusing on what’s right in front of you.” The self-motivated teen credits the sport for instilling a deeper sense of discipline and perspective. “Soccer has brought more structure and time management into my life,” Murphy explained. “That discipline has also pushed me to take more initiative in other areas, like going to church—even if I don’t have anyone to go with. The sport has helped me build a closer relationship with God.” Murphy’s commitment to growth extends beyond the field. She’s an active member of Student Council, the Spanish Club, and Interact—a service-oriented organization. “I like to stay involved,” she said. “Interact is all about

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I want to make a difference and be hands on in my career.

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“I’m a nurturer,” she said. “I want to make a difference and be hands-on in my career. I want to be part of a team that brings about good, and I’ve learned a lot about that through soccer.” It seems the beautiful game has taught Murphy more than she ever imagined.

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ATHLETIC TRAINING

THE FIGHTER

Through Adversity, Finley Has Become a Beacon at TWCA LIFE OFTEN TAKES MORE THAN IT GIVES, AND SOME FACE MORE HARDSHIPS THAN OTHERS. HOWEVER, THROUGH ADVERSITY, RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH CAN EMERGE—A TRUTH EMBODIED BY FINLEY, ONE OF TWCA’S STANDOUT FIGURES IN THE ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM. \\ By Matthew Ogle Virginia Finley

“Growing up, I always wanted to go into the medical field because of my mom,” Finley shared. “She was an OBGYN here in The Woodlands, but she passed away just before my second birthday. As I got older, I knew medicine was something I wanted to pursue.” That calling deepened during a life-altering period in her sophomore year. “The year I joined the sports medicine program, my dad got really sick and had to go into hospice,” she said. “I spent a lot of time in the hospital with him. Watching people help each other in that environment truly inspired me to dive deeper into the medical field.” Tragically, Finley lost her father last year. Now, she lives with her grandmother and aunt, carrying the lessons of her challenges with remarkable strength. “It’s been tough,” she admitted. “But I try to make light of it and grow from it. Without those experiences, I wouldn’t have the mental fortitude I do now. With everything that’s happened, all I can do is keep moving forward.” Yet, Finley’s journey into TWCA Sports Medicine wasn’t solely born of hardship. “I got interested in training because some friends encouraged me to join my sophomore year,” she said. “After that, I fell in love with helping athletes—on and off the field—with injury prevention and everything else we do.” Her dual perspective as a trainer and athlete gives her a unique edge. When she’s not assisting on the sidelines, Finley plays softball for TWCA. But her athletic prowess doesn’t stop there. She’s also a Kukkiwon-certified black belt in taekwondo. “It’s kind of my biggest flex,” Finley laughed. “I studied under a five-time Olympic coach and trained alongside Olympians like Victoria Stambaugh and three-time World Champion Bianca Walkden. “I eventually stopped training when I started here because I wanted to focus on school sports and have more freedom. But it’s one of my biggest accomplishments.” Looking ahead, Finley’s passion for sports medicine and helping others is steering her college ambitions. “I’m considering Texas Lutheran or Texas State,” she said. “I want to continue in athletic training or maybe explore sports psychology. Through my experience, I’ve seen how athletes can struggle mentally when they’re injured. I want to be part of that recovery process and help them keep doing what they love.” Despite the challenges she’s faced, Finley’s determination and optimism have made her an inspiration to those around her. Through her diverse experiences and indomitable spirit, Finley is destined to live out her dream of helping others— on and off the field.

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ATHLETIC TRAINING

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THE UNSUNG HEROES Warriors Sport Med Program Dedicated to Serving

WHEN IT COMES TO ALL FIELDS OF PLAY, THERE ISN’T A GROUP MORE VITAL TO THE SAFETY AND RECUPERATION OF A TEAM’S ATHLETES THAN THE ATHLETIC TRAINERS. While many do it for experience in the kinesiology career path, it takes hours of dedication and preparation to ensure that TWCA’s players can perform with confidence. It’s not necessarily a “thankless” job but these young men and women still remain underappreciated. When getting hydrated, taped up, or going through physical therapy, be sure to thank your trainer!

2024-25 Athletic Trainers

Shannon Sipsma

Marissa Clark

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ATHLETIC TRAINING

Mackenzie Allphin

Brayden Wells

Caden Chapman

Reagan Sberna

Ryan Norus

Samantha Brown

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TWCA NEWS

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TWCA NEWS