Eastlake High School volleyball player Genna Gandara, who is arguably El Paso's best player entering the 2026 season, has made her college decision.
The senior setter will play for Division 1 Abilene Christian
University. She made the announcement on Friday, July 24.
Abilene Christian competes in the United Athletic Conference, formerly known as the WAC.
"Abilene Christian University is a great place in many respects and I have really enjoyed creating a relationship with the coaches and players on the team," Gandara said. "Abilene Christian has recruited me for a while and it feels like the right choice for me to continue my career there."
Gandara has beena starter at Eastalke for three seasons and her career stats include 3,813 assists, 998 digs, 292 kills, 128 blocks and 134 service aces.
Gandara has helped guide the Falcons to three District 1-6A championships in her career and five UIL playoff victories.
She joins recent Eastlake volleyball players who signed Division 1 scholarships. Outside hitter Jaelynn Kohli plays at New Mexico State, middle blocker Mia Carrasco signed after the 2025 season with Austin Peay University and Anaelena Ramirez was a significant contributor at Grand Canyon University.
"I want to finish strong at Eastlake and help our team continue to grow," Gandara said. "I'll continue to work hard to try and help our team get better."
Eastlake volleyball coach Roel DeAnda said Gandara has earned her opportunity to play at the Division 1 level.
"Genna is a really smart player and she's always doing the extra things to get better," DeAnda said. "She'll have a chance to get there and contribute as a freshman. Genna has been so important to our program."
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on X
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso volleyball standout Genna Gandara commits to Abilene Christian
