Al Bennett came to Texas in 1979 with no knowledge of volleyball. He grew up in Canada playing hockey.

But then he was given the chance to coach at St. Austin and start the girl’s athletic program. After learning from legendary coaches Mick Haley and Glen Lietzke, he took over the volleyball program at Westlake High School.

Almost 30 years later, Bennett has built the Chaparrals into one of the best volleyball programs in the state with four state titles and countless district championships and playoff berths.