Altus volleyball is no longer chasing history, it is living in it and trying to raise the bar even higher. After last season’s breakthrough, the Lady Bulldogs come into the new year carrying the weight of expectations and the confidence that comes with proving they belong among the state’s elite.

The program is fresh off a remarkable 34-3 campaign that featured the first regional title and first trip to the state tournament in school history, and that performance has reshaped how opponents view Altus.

Instead of being the team no one wants to lose to, Altus is now the team everyone wants to beat, a target that only sharpens the focus of a veteran roster.

Ten players return, including four hitters who each finished with more than 100 kills, giving the Bulldogs an enviable blend of depth and experience at the net.

All-State Tournament selection Evyn Bull headlines a senior-heavy core that also includes powerful attackers Kaprie Craddock, Hayden Castillo and Jaylee Carmen, while libero Jordyn Huckins and setter Olivia Williams stabilize the back row and offensive rhythm. Sophomores Ali Waites and Lyla Bonds, who saw substantial action a year ago, add youthful energy and versatility. Altus has loaded its schedule on purpose, committing to four challenging tournaments at Burkburnett, Carl Albert, Claremore and Shawnee in order to test itself against some of the toughest teams in the region and prepare for another postseason push.

Craddock already owns school records for single-season and career kills and continues to round out her game as a six-rotation leader, while Bonds has emerged as a defensive specialist who is just as dangerous when she rotates to the front row.

Sophomore libero hopeful Kiki Huckins embodies the program’s “small and mighty” mentality with fearless defense and a willingness to throw her body across the floor for saves.

Bull, a multi-sport standout and state placer in tennis, sets the tone with calm leadership, competitive drive and a commitment to service that shows up through National Honor Society projects.

With championship-tested experience, character-driven leaders and an intentionally rugged schedule, Altus enters the season expecting its road back to state to be difficult, and fully embracing the challenge.