BREAKING: Cedar Park’s standout volleyball player, Joy Udoye, has just been named the 2025 Central Texas Player of the Year, following an extraordinary season that showcased her elite skills and leadership. This recognition comes as the season wraps up, with Udoye leading the Timberwolves to a remarkable 39-12 overall record and a state title victory in the Class 5A Division II.
With a staggering 581 kills, 364 digs, 34 aces, and 30 blocks, Udoye’s performance this fall has been nothing short of phenomenal. As a senior, she has not only excelled as an outside hitter but has also made significant contributions as a six-rotation specialist, demonstrating her versatility on the court.
In an area brimming with talent, Udoye has stood out amongst her peers, all of whom have either signed or committed to Division I schools. Her coach, Lori McLaughlin, praised her for peaking at the right moment, stating, “This was the best version of Joy that I witnessed.” She continued, “It’s a testament to her training and the dedication she’s shown over the last four years.”
Udoye’s journey has been remarkable, starting as a freshman and quickly becoming a key player for Cedar Park. Her athletic prowess is evident, standing over six feet tall with an impressive vertical leap, making her a formidable force when hitting the ball. Despite slightly lower raw totals compared to last year, she maintained an impressive average of over four kills per set with a 26.1 hitting percentage.
Reflecting on her success, Udoye shared, “I was more consistent this season … I just feel so accomplished after a kill.” Her love for the game is evident as she finds volleyball to be an enjoyable escape from daily life.
Udoye’s athletic pedigree is notable, growing up with three older brothers who were deeply involved in sports. “That just brought a different type of personality out of me,” she recalls, emphasizing how their experiences shaped her competitive spirit.
As her high school career comes to a close, the anticipation of the future looms large. Udoye has already signed to play at Stanford, a testament to her hard work and dedication to the sport. “Sometimes it still feels like a dream,” she admits, reflecting on her achievements and the tight-knit relationships she built with her teammates and coaches throughout her journey.
As this news breaks, the impact of Udoye’s athletic talent and leadership will surely resonate beyond Cedar Park, inspiring young athletes across Central Texas. Fans are eager to see how she continues to develop her skills at the collegiate level, and the volleyball community will be watching closely as she transitions to Stanford.
UP NEXT: Keep an eye on Joy Udoye as she embarks on her collegiate journey, and stay tuned for updates on other local athletes making headlines in the world of sports.
