Grand Oaks’ Rogers, Caney Creek’s Jackson Honored for State Championships

By: Gwendolyn Butler, College Park High School Senior
EfTA Communications Intern

CONROE, TEXAS (July 19, 2024) – Grand Oaks Volleyball Coach Morgan Rogers and Caney Creek Head Cheer Coach Janel Jackson were recognized for their UIL State Championships at the Texas Girls Coaches Association (TGCA) Conference in Arlington.

Coach Rogers, who also earned TGCA 5A-6A Volleyball Coach of the Year, has led the volleyball program at Grand Oaks High School since opened in 2018, capturing the school’s first team UIL championship in the fall.

Rogers has attributed her team’s success to “doing little things the right way” to achieve unity and takes pride in her team’s ability to perform under pressure while supporting each other.

“Not everyone responds to negativity or criticism the same,” she says, so she likes to remain calm on the sidelines. “I’m not big on stressing…if I can stay calm, hopefully, that soothes them and they stay calm, too.”

Her strategy has led her team to success, as the Grizzlies went 48-1 overall and reigned undefeated in the district, while only losing a single set.

Rogers says that coaching one of the top volleyball teams in the nation is “humbling” but something she is very grateful for and telling her team: “They deserve it.”

According to a TGCA spokesperson, “Coach Rogers [has] demonstrated exceptional dedication,” earning her a TGCA State Championship ring.

Led by Coach Jackson, the Caney Creek High School Co-Ed Cheerleading team took first at the UIL Spirit State Championship in January, also the first team state title for the Panthers.

Her work ethic and dedication to her team have continued to rise to the top of the competition. Jackson is “really proud” of her team, stating that their “effort paid off.”

During the five years Jackson has coached the Caney Creek team, she has fostered a culture of work ethic, spirit, and pride in her students. Her discipline has earned her a TGCA State Championship ring at the conference in June, where she was also honored for her milestone of 400 cumulative points throughout her career. The spokesperson for TGCA commented that Jackson’s honor was a “well-deserved recognition” for a coach who has led her team to great success.

Both Jackson and Rogers were guests of honor at the TGCA Honor Awards Reception and Banquet. The coaches received Herff Jones State Championship rings to commemorate their success and commitment to leading teams to greatness.