Texas Stars Show Determination and Grit at USLPL Showdown #2 in St. Louis

Competing in the league's 50+ division, the Texas Stars entered their second showdown facing a unique challenge: nearly half of the team's roster consisted of substitute players.

Despite the lineup changes and a challenging weekend of competition, the Stars demonstrated resilience, determination, and a commitment to competing at the highest level.

Although the team finished the weekend with an 0–4 record, three of the four matchups ended with narrow 7–5 scores, illustrating just how competitive the Stars remained throughout the event.

A Weekend of Hard-Fought Battles

The Texas Stars opened competition Saturday morning, October 10, against the Keystone Crushers. In a competitive opening matchup, the Stars battled throughout before falling 7–5.

Saturday afternoon brought another difficult challenge against the Boston Dragons. Despite their efforts, the Stars came up short, losing 8–4.

On Sunday, October 11, the Texas Stars returned to the courts determined to turn the weekend around. Their first matchup against the NYC Ballers proved to be another closely contested battle, with the Stars falling 7–5.

The weekend concluded against the Columbus Arsenal, where the Texas Stars once again fought hard before narrowly losing 7–5.

While the final results were not what the team had hoped for, the weekend provided valuable competitive experience and demonstrated the organization's depth and determination.

Showdown #2 — Texas Stars Results

• Oct. 10 vs. Keystone Crushers — Loss 5–7
• Oct. 10 vs. Boston Dragons — Loss 4–8
• Oct. 11 vs. NYC Ballers — Loss 5–7
• Oct. 11 vs. Columbus Arsenal — Loss 5–7
• Overall Weekend Record: 0 Wins – 4 Losses

Standout Player Performances

Kacy Roth Leads the Way

Kacy Roth was one of the weekend's biggest bright spots, finishing with an impressive 6–2 record, leading the Texas Stars in individual wins. Her performance provided consistency and leadership throughout the weekend.

Lance Cowart Provides Stability

Lance Cowart also played an important role, serving as a stabilizing force at the team's number-one line while the regular roster adjusted to the presence of several substitute players. His experience and steady play helped the Stars remain competitive against challenging opponents.

Substitute Players Step Up for the Stars

One of the most significant stories of Showdown #2 was the contribution of the substitute players who stepped in to represent the Texas Stars. With nearly half the roster consisting of substitutes, the weekend presented both a challenge and an opportunity.

Several players gained valuable experience competing in the USLPL, while helping the team remain competitive throughout the event:

• James Bayer: 3–3 record
• Jennifer Donovan: 3–3 record
• Anne-Marie: 3–3 record
• Jensin Sommer: 3–3 record
• Kendra Schwada: 2–4 record

Their willingness to step in, compete, and represent the organization speaks to the commitment and depth of the Texas Stars program. The organization extends a special thank-you to every substitute player who answered the call and joined the regular roster in St. Louis.

More Than Wins and Losses

As a first-year expansion team, the Texas Stars understand that building a successful organization takes more than a single weekend of results.

Showdown #2 presented challenges, but it also provided opportunities for player development, team chemistry, and valuable league experience. With three matches ending 7–5, the Stars demonstrated that even with substantial roster changes, they could compete against established league opponents.

The weekend was another important step in building a team that values preparation, teamwork, and a never-quit attitude.

The scoreboard may not have reflected the effort, but the Texas Stars left St. Louis with valuable experience and an even stronger determination to improve.

Building Toward the Next Showdown

Through the first two events of their inaugural USLPL season, the Texas Stars have experienced the excitement of opening-weekend victories and the challenges of competing with a changing roster. Every matchup provides another opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen the organization.

As the Stars prepare for their next league event, the focus remains on building chemistry, developing winning combinations, and continuing to represent Texas with pride. The Texas Stars are committed to the journey, and the season is far from over.

Follow the Texas Stars throughout the 2026 USLPL season for team news, player highlights, upcoming events, and results.

Texas Stars Pickleball — Texas Proud. Built to Compete.