Excellence has become commonplace for Westlake’s volleyball team.

Coach Al Bennett has developed the state’s preeminent program in the past 20 years, producing state tournament teams and college players with regularity.

But he’s never coached anyone quite like “Sassy” Sara Shaw, a four-year member of the varsity team whose career achievements are unmatched.

Shaw, a 6-foot-1 inch outside hitter committed to the University of Southern California, emerged as the consensus Player of the Year in Texas after carrying the Chaps to the Class 5A state title contest. Her ability to consistently deliver point after point in the biggest of matches earns her the Westlake Picayune’s 2009-10 Girls Athlete of the Year award.

Despite an ankle injury that slowed her for most of the nondistrict schedule, Shaw still produced enough plays in 2009 to become Westlake’s all-time leader in kills and aces. She had 453 kills in 87 games for a stellar rate of 5.0 kills per game, 291 digs and 59 aces. Those numbers reflect her pivotal role in Westlake’s offense; Shaw never left the rotation, and she developed defensive instincts to match her offensive firepower.

Shaw even used her injury absence to strengthen the Chaps. With its primary weapon sidelined during tournament action, Westlake had to develop several other offensive threats. After regaining enough strength in her ankle to get back on the court, Shaw melded with her less-accomplished teammates while still delivering familiar production.

The results speak for themselves. Westlake finished the year with a 39-7 record and a spot in the Class 5A state championship game for a third consecutive year. A third straight loss to Amarillo in that title match stung, but it cannot lessen the achievements of Shaw and her teammates.

Honorable mention

When Westlake senior Samantha Tucker toed the starting block for the 100-yard freestyle at February’s Class 5A swimming championships, she had more than a chance at a fourth consecutive state championship in the event. She also had a chance at redemption. Tucker ended with both by winning gold in a blistering 49.83 seconds. The victory eased the pain of a third-place finish in the 200 freestyle, an event in which Tucker owns the state record. Tucker also anchored Westlake’s winning 400 freestyle relay team.

Need a bucket in a game’s most crucial moment? How about a rebound? Or a steal, block or assist? Heck, Westlake senior girls basketball player Courtney Duever could probably lead her team in three-point shooting if she wanted, considering the versatility that made the 6-1 forward the co-District 25-5A Most Valuable Player. The University of Central Arkansas recruit averaged 14 points, eight rebounds, 3.6 steals and 2.0 blocks per game while helping the Chaps reach the second round of the playoffs.