The district’s annual VolleyPalooza tournament kicks off today on Leander ISD campuses.  Rouse’s first game against Burnet is at noon today.

The tournament will have 40 teams total from Central Texas schools, with games being played at the five high schools. Games on campus will run throughout the day today through Saturday, with the varsity girl’s first match against Burnet at noon.

With a home court advantage, the volleyball team is hoping for an outpouring of support from the school community.

 “I love having matches on campus during school, it gives students a chance to see us play that normally wouldn’t come,” head coach Jacob Thompson said.

With such a large field, there will be fierce competition, but the team is hoping to finish in a top spot.

“[Our] ultimate expectations are to win the tournament,” Thompson said. “To finish in the top quarter of the tournament would say good things about the way the team is progressing.”

This year’s varsity team sports 15 players, including eight seniors. They are currently 13-8 in pre-season matches and hope to improve that record with this tournament.

 “We are definitely capable if we stay focused,” player Brieana Ladd said.

Fans can stay updated on the match schedules and scores by accessing the VolleyPalooza website. The tournament continues through Saturday.

The Lady Raiders will play at noon and 2 p.m. today on campus.