The Plano West volleyball team has been as consistent a force as any in the Metroplex in recent years, and senior Blaire Bowers has contributed to that success in each of her four seasons on varsity.
She was one of three freshmen to make the Lady Wolves’ varsity roster in 2022, along with seniors Reese Poerner and Katelyn Vo, and that group has experienced plenty of winning since then.
West recently finished off its third district championship campaign in four years, tying atop the 6-6A standings with Allen after going 14-2 in conference play and 26-5 overall – its fifth straight year with at least 25 wins.
Bowers has been a mainstay in the Lady Wolves’ rotation throughout her high school career, earning all-district second-team honors as a freshman and first-team recognition as a sophomore and junior. She has done so with one of the more well-rounded skill sets in the district – finishing in the top three on her team in kills, aces, digs and serves received during her junior campaign.
Bowers’ versatility goes well beyond the high school court – having developed several of those skills from playing beach volleyball, which is where she’ll be plying her craft at the college level after verbally committing to UCLA.
In this week’s student-athlete profile, Bowers reflects on her high school career at West, translating her success as a beach volleyball player to the indoor game, and more.
SLM: You’ve been part of three district championship teams in your four years on varsity. What do you attribute to the Plano West volleyball program’s success?
BB: Through my four years with Plano West varsity, I would say it all comes down to the team culture. Everyone has a role on the team and we all bring different play types to one team. I bring the beach skills of different shots, spot swinging, and the defense of a beach player.
The team holds each other to a super high standard while being a family, and that’s what keeps us winning.
SLM: Having played on varsity since you were a freshman, where do you feel you’ve grown the most as a player now that you’re a senior?
BB: I have found myself growing in leadership. During my freshman year, I was adapting and learning the speed of the game from our seniors. As a senior now, I am helping the underclassmen adapt and know their roles in the program.
I have definitely learned how to make smart plays instead of just hitting hard every time. That has definitely brought a lot to the team and our playing type.
SLM: How has your experience playing beach volleyball helped develop your skill set for high school volleyball?
BB: I would say beach totally changes your game. It is very easy to tell a beach player apart from an indoor player. In beach you have to do everything — pass, set, hit, serve — and read the court better. It has made me way quicker on my feet on the court and better at reading hitters.
Plus, you can’t hide on the sand when there are only two people, so it really builds confidence and ball control.
On the mental aspect, I think beach volleyball has helped me slow down and enjoy the game, with indoor being fast-paced with loud student sections – many can forget to take a breath and reset.
SLM: How long have you been playing volleyball and what gravitated you to the sport?
BB: I started playing volleyball when I was 9 years old – I went straight into club volleyball at MadFrog. I found my love for beach volleyball through my sister – Brooke Bowers, who currently plays at Loyola Marymount University – when I was 10 years old.
I tried many sports before, but the teamwork and energy that volleyball brings to my life was hard to pass up. The lessons and lifelong memories that volleyball has given me reminds me every day how lucky I am. I cannot wait to learn and make more at UCLA while I continue my beach volleyball career.
SLM: Who are some of the biggest influences on your development as a volleyball player?
BB: I have had many people in my life that dedicated their entire heart to me playing volleyball. My sister definitely has pushed me and helped me through the highs and lows. My parents have always been by my side, driven me to practices and have been at every single game.
I would also say (West head coach Cooper) Phillips has had a big impact on my career. His passion and heart for the game is a good reminder. He has supported me through balancing beach and court volleyball and that does not go unnoticed. Every 6 a.m. practice that feels like it’s 3 a.m., he makes sure to make it fun and worth it.
SLM: What is one memory from your high school volleyball career that stands out?
BB: Out of my four years with the program I have made lifelong memories, but one of my favorites was being able to play with my sister on varsity my freshman year. Being on the same team and playing side by side with her was a true blessing.
I got to spend early-morning practices, bus rides and a district championship with my best friend.
SLM: What are your favorite ways to spend your downtime when not playing volleyball?
BB: On my very rare off days, I would say you can find me either at the gym doing weights but always at the lake surfing. Surfing is one of my favorite things to do when I do not have volleyball or lifts.
A good boat day with my family and friends is very hard to beat. I think it is very important to have those fun off days with your people — it is very good to balance the grind with the social aspect.
SLM: Care to share an interesting fact about yourself?
BB: My faith is a huge part of who I am. I always keep God at the center of everything I do — on and off the court. Volleyball has taught me a lot about trust and perseverance, and I really believe that my strength and peace come from Him.
Whether we win or lose, I always try to play for something bigger than myself.