Taylor ISD is excited to announce the hiring of Sarah Neal as the district's new Girls Athletic Coordinator and Head Volleyball Coach.

Coach Neal brings a strong background in athletics, program development, and student leadership to Taylor ISD. A Bastrop native and graduate of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor with a degree in kinesiology, Neal has served in coaching roles at Belton ISD, Gonzales ISD, and most recently at Chaparral High School.

As a member of the founding staff at Chaparral High School, Coach Neal played a key role in building the school's volleyball program from the ground up. During her four seasons leading the program, the team qualified for the playoffs each year, highlighted by an undefeated district championship season in 2024 and a deep postseason run. Her success earned her District 16-5A Coach of the Year honors.

In addition to volleyball, Neal has coached basketball, soccer, powerlifting, and track and field, bringing a broad range of athletic and leadership experience to the district.

Coach Neal is passionate about helping students grow both athletically and personally, emphasizing confidence, resilience, character, and teamwork as key components of success.

Outside of athletics, she enjoys spending time with her three-year-old daughter, Kora, staying active, and embracing new adventures.

Taylor ISD is proud to welcome Coach Neal to the Duck family and looks forward to the leadership, energy, and experience she will bring to the district's athletic programs.