BREAKING: Cedar Park High School’s Joy Udoye has been named the 2025 Central Texas Volleyball Player of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the region’s top athletes. Just a semester away from graduation, Udoye led the Timberwolves to a stunning 39-12 season, including a championship win in the Class 5A Division II state title, with an impressive tally of 581 kills, 364 digs, 34 aces, and 30 blocks.
This prestigious recognition, announced earlier today, is a pinnacle achievement in Udoye’s remarkable high school career. The standout outside hitter, who has committed to play at Stanford, has been a key player for Cedar Park throughout her four-year tenure, earning first-team All-Central Texas honors twice. “Being named Central Texas’ player of the year is the cherry on top of an impressive career,” she stated.
Udoye’s performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. “This was the best version of Joy that I witnessed,” remarked Cedar Park coach Lori McLaughlin. “She peaked at the right time as a senior. That’s a testament to her training and all the time she’s put in the last four years.”
With an athletic build of over 6 feet and elite vertical ability, Udoye has transformed into a matchup nightmare for rivals. Although her overall numbers dipped slightly compared to last year, she maintained an average of over four kills per set with a hitting percentage of 26.1%. “I was more consistent this season,” Udoye explained. “I just feel so accomplished after a kill.”
The Cedar Park Timberwolves entered the fall season with a clear goal: to avenge last year’s runner-up finish at state. “We started off the season with that being our goal,” Udoye noted. “We brought that into everything that we did.” The team’s intense focus and rigorous training paid off, leading them to victory.
Udoye’s journey to becoming a volleyball sensation began in her childhood, surrounded by athletic siblings. “That just brought a different type of personality out of me,” she laughed, reflecting on her upbringing. Coach McLaughlin first noticed Udoye at a camp in 2019, initially mistaking her for an older player. Just a few years later, she would be pivotal in securing a state title for Cedar Park, providing the match-winning block in a thrilling finale.
“Sometimes it still feels like a dream,” Udoye remarked, capturing the emotional journey that brought her and her team together. “You ask yourself, ‘Is this real?’ It was an amazing experience to win it with such a close team.”
As the volleyball season wraps up, all eyes will be on Udoye as she prepares for the next chapter in her athletic career at Stanford. Her recognition as Central Texas’ player of the year is not just an accolade; it’s a testament to her hard work, determination, and the legacy she leaves behind at Cedar Park.
Fans and sports enthusiasts alike are encouraged to share this inspiring story of athletic achievement. Stay tuned for more updates on Udoye’s transition to collegiate volleyball and her future endeavors.
