Mexico volleyball focused on building a culture last year and wants to become stronger playing together this year.

The Lady Bulldogs had a good summer that saw much winning on the court, and head coach Tami Sells believes better teamwork is the reason for that.

“Volleyball is a team sport, and every athlete on the team plays a vital role in making the team successful,” Sells said. “The key is working together toward a common goal, and I think our team is learning to trust and rely on one another to accomplish that.”

There will be 28 girls in the program this season, including four seniors, four juniors, seven sophomores and 13 freshmen. Senior opposite hitter and setter Layla Belcher, senior opposite hitter Camy Blackburn, senior outside hitter Charley Jackson, junior libero Averee Hampton and sophomore setter Julia Goerne are key returners for Mexico.

There will be a big group of girls who will be newcomers for the varsity team like junior defensive specialist Parker Howell, junior middle hitter Savannah Murray, sophomore defensive specialist and outside hitter Gwen Walker, sophomore defensive specialist and outside hitter Caroline Fisher, freshman middle hitter Anna Isgrig, sophomore reserve hitter and defensive specialist Dylann Hunt and freshman reserve defensive specialist Avery Sells.

“There are several players who are versatile and can contribute in different ways,” Sells said. “We also have many players who can step up on the court to offer support at the varsity level when needed.”

Sells said Mexico has good teamwork, communication and energy from “establishing a team-first standard” last year. She believes more wins will come from this.

“Whatever the outcome, our primary goal is for all players to play with Hustle, Effort, (positive) Attitude, Resiliency, and Teamwork,” Sells said. “Our motto is Play with H.E.A.R.T.”