With a sweep on the court and generosity in the stands, Coppell High School’s girls’ volleyball team turned their annual “Hits for Heroes” match into a celebration of service. The Cowgirls defeated Lewisville in straight sets (25–12, 25–14, 25–12), but the real victory came in the form of a $4,000 donation to the One Tribe Foundation.
The Texas-based nonprofit — formerly known as 22KILL — focuses on combating suicide among veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers, as well as supporting their families. Its programs combine traditional therapy with nontraditional approaches like peer-to-peer counseling, outdoor activities, and even motorcycle riding, all aimed at strengthening emotional and mental wellness.
Head coach Robyn Ross said the event is designed to show her players that their sport can serve as a platform for something bigger. Ross told student reporter Riya Prasad for the school’s student newspaper that she had family members with a military background. “[Hits for Heroes] is something I am trying to bring into this program so that the girls can realize it is bigger than just Coppell and bigger than volleyball,” she was quoted as saying.
The “Hits for Heroes” tradition has quickly become a highlight of the Cowgirls’ season, drawing fans not just for the competition but for the cause. FAcross the country, volleyball teams host similar fundraising nights, often rallying the community with themed shirts, donation drives, and recognition of local heroes. These matches typically highlight a cause as much as the competition, creating opportunities for student-athletes to see the impact of their efforts beyond the scoreboard.
For organizations like the One Tribe Foundation, donations from schools and youth sports teams provide vital support to expand outreach and therapy programs. While $4,000 may seem like a modest total, gifts from local fundraisers add up, helping sustain initiatives that make a difference for veterans and first responders.
At Coppell, the night underscored how high school sports can unite students, families, and fans around a shared purpose. Victories on the court are sweet, but victories for the wider community resonate even longer.
