District 8-3A Volleyball Season Outlook: Early

(Photo courtesy of Coach Missy Vaughn)

First Look Feature: Our 2026 digital preview series covers all 29 Big Country high school sports programs ahead of kickoff on August 28.

Pick up the print issue of Varsity Preview on newsstands now, or subscribe to get each issue delivered straight to your mailbox!

Early enters the 2026 volleyball season with high expectations after another successful year that included 28 wins and a playoff appearance.

2025 season: Finished 28-7 overall, 10-4 in district; advanced to the bi-district round of the Class 3A Division II playoffs.

Coach Missy Vaughn returns 6 lettermen and 4 starters from that squad.

Key players:

• Aubrie Devillier (Jr. OH): Led the team in both kills and digs last season while playing all six rotations.
• Grey Pruett (Sr. Setter/RSH): Three-year varsity starter who led the Lady Longhorns in assists last season.
• Ellie Shea (Sr. MB)
• Kailyn Gallardo (Jr. OH)
• Jaime Lyon (Jr. DS/OH)
• Sunny Groom (So. Setter/RSH)

Offensive leaders:

• Aubrie Devillier (Jr. OH): Team’s leading returning attacker.
• Grey Pruett (Sr. Setter/RSH): Returning assists leader and quarterback of the offense.

Defensive leader:

• Aubrie Devillier (Jr. OH): Team leader in digs last season.

Team outlook: Vaughn believes the Lady Longhorns will be quicker, more experienced and full of energy this season. Early hopes to build on last year’s playoff appearance.

Early competes in District 7-3A with Breckenridge, Comanche, Dublin, Eastland, Millsap, Peaster and Tolar.

Want the full physical magazine with exclusive photos and coaches’ insights? Get your magazine today!