It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting City of Arlington - Texas State Historical Marker in Arlington, TX gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Arlington, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Marcus Gardner and working alongside him for over 15”
“Always Best Care Senior Serivces is a great company with an excellent reputation. The owner”
“Always Best Care Senior Serivces is a great company with an excellent reputation. The owner”
“Very professional, highly recommend.”
“It is always a pleasure to work with Always Best Care. Their staff is professional,”
“Marcus and his team brings excellence to all that they do in providing quality care.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Dallas, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a”
“Marcus runs a professional agency that is dedicated to providing the utmost compassionate care in”
“Amazing organization! If looking for care in the Dallas area please call immediately.”
“I have worked for Always Best Care for 4 years I am a care giver”
“Best company to work for ????????”
“As a caregiver, I've found that the company truly values its employees and offers a”
“ABC is an expert in caregiving and taking very good care of their clients. Each”
“Best customer service! Great home health care! Highly recommended!!”
“This company is committed and to delivering excellence.”
“Great place to work for. Great Boss and Ladies in Office. Been working for”
“I was blessed to find this job two weeks ago. I have met wonderful people”
“We were so happy with Always Best Care. They took great car of my parents”
“Everyone in their office is knowledgeable and have gone above and beyond to answer all”
“Great environment for growth and great team!”
“I have been with the company like almost 3years but the staff is wonderful n”
“I love Always Best Care they are an awesome company to work for, The name”
“Great service”
“Dear Mr. Gardner, I am writing to express my gratitude for the commitment and service”
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Marcus Gardner and working alongside him for over 15 years. Marcus is a genuinely caring person who always puts families first. His team at Always Best Care provides excellent in-home care and takes care of all the details, making a difficult time much less stressful for families. If you’re looking for a trustworthy company with compassionate leadership, I highly recommend Marcus and Always Best Care.”
“Always Best Care Senior Serivces is a great company with an excellent reputation. The owner is involved and works alongside his employees and clients and match their needs. The environment is warm and friendly as well as caring. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services to anyone who is need of home health services as well as employment.”
“Always Best Care Senior Serivces is a great company with an excellent reputation. The owner is involved and works alongside his employees and clients and match their needs. The environment is warm and friendly as well as caring. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services to anyone who is need of home health services as well as employment.”
“Very professional, highly recommend.”
“It is always a pleasure to work with Always Best Care. Their staff is professional, kind and empathetic in the most difficult situations. I strongly recommend their company and services they provide.”
“Marcus and his team brings excellence to all that they do in providing quality care. You get Outstanding customer experience with this agency!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Dallas, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional care to our clients. What truly sets this organization apart is our people-first culture—both in how we care for our clients and how we support our employees. We take great pride in creating a positive, respectful, and inclusive workplace where caregivers and staff feel valued, heard, and empowered. From comprehensive onboarding and training programs to ongoing development opportunities, we are committed to helping our team grow professionally and personally. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing the strong bonds formed between caregivers and the families we serve. Our focus on quality, compassion, and reliability is reflected not only in client satisfaction but also in the high retention rates among our team. If you're seeking a career in home care where you’ll be appreciated and supported every step of the way, Always Best Care Dallas is a place where you can truly make a difference.”
“Marcus runs a professional agency that is dedicated to providing the utmost compassionate care in the area. This is a group you can trust!!!”
“Amazing organization! If looking for care in the Dallas area please call immediately.”
“I have worked for Always Best Care for 4 years I am a care giver we go above and beyond to take care of your love ones the staff is awesome Marcus make sure you are taken care of Veronica”
“Best company to work for ????????”
“As a caregiver, I've found that the company truly values its employees and offers a supportive, compassionate environment. The management team is always available and genuinely cares about both their clients and the staff.”
“ABC is an expert in caregiving and taking very good care of their clients. Each caregiver has a bio on the client so they are well prepared. Each client receives a ‘Meet and Greet’ with the caregiver and office staff/managers/owner before their first shift with a new caregiver. They instill best practices and training /feedback with all their caregivers. Marcus, the owner, is hands on and is invested in each client getting what they need, and goes above and beyond.”
“Best customer service! Great home health care! Highly recommended!!”
“This company is committed and to delivering excellence.”
“Great place to work for. Great Boss and Ladies in Office. Been working for almost 4yrs in September this year. They help out when ask.”
“I was blessed to find this job two weeks ago. I have met wonderful people during my tenure here so far. All of the staff has been welcoming and truly make me feel like family. I have never felt more appreciated. This is a five star company!!”
“We were so happy with Always Best Care. They took great car of my parents for over 2 years. Very professional care givers. The staff loves working for the company and the owner takes great care of them. If ever needed we would use their services again.”
“Everyone in their office is knowledgeable and have gone above and beyond to answer all of my questions. They definitely have the heart for caring for the elderly and experts in placement.”
“Great environment for growth and great team!”
“I have been with the company like almost 3years but the staff is wonderful n caring they go out and beyond for there clients .”
“I love Always Best Care they are an awesome company to work for, The name speaks for itself because always we give the best care for each of our patients...I love the staffs and the patients I have been working for Always Best Care 5 years and not one regret. ????”
“Great service”
“Dear Mr. Gardner, I am writing to express my gratitude for the commitment and service of your employee, Shameka Kelly. Through your agency, Ms. Kelly was connected to our family to serve as a caregiver for my sister Victoria who was in the late states of ALS/Lou Gehrigs disease and required 24-hr. care at home. Shameka served as full-time caregiver under the direction of Victorias husband Ron, who was able to keep my sister at home until her passing this past March. This catastrophic and incurable disease rendered my sister completely paralyzed wheelchair bound, unable to speak, bathe, eat or even lift a finger to do anything for herself. Shameka did what most caregivers would not or simply could not do because of the stamina and patience required to care for Victoria. Before Shameka, we hired a multitude of caregivers who came and went sometimes only after one day because of how strenuous and taxing being a caregiver to my sister was. Day after day, Shameka arrived for the job with a smile on her face and the patience and commitment to go with it. My sister Victoria grew to love Shameka, as we all have. It was a great comfort to us because we knew that if Shameka was on duty, my sister was in good hands. Shamekas character, integrity, humor, honesty and professionalism are beyond reproach. She is an extremely caring individual who is always upbeat, optimistic, and patient. She was an answer to prayer for our family and became more than a caregiver she became part of our family. She has my highest recommendation for any task or client that may be placed before her. And we will be forever grateful. Kindest regards, Pamela Meek North Richland Hills, TX”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting River Legacy Parks in Arlington, TX with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Cut & Bourbon or visit First United Methodist Church of Arlington - Texas State Historical Marker, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Arlington, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Arlington, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Arlington, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
North Texas faces worsening drought conditions as a persistent heat wave brings another hot, dry weekend, according to the National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office.Saturday’s high is forecast to be 102 degrees, with a heat index, or a “feels like" temperature, of 105. Early morning temperatures will dip into the high 70s before climbing up into the 80s.Relative humidity levels are expected to increase slightly heading into the weekend compared with earlier this week.AdvertisementArticle ...
North Texas faces worsening drought conditions as a persistent heat wave brings another hot, dry weekend, according to the National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office.
Saturday’s high is forecast to be 102 degrees, with a heat index, or a “feels like" temperature, of 105. Early morning temperatures will dip into the high 70s before climbing up into the 80s.
Relative humidity levels are expected to increase slightly heading into the weekend compared with earlier this week.
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Above-normal heat and below-normal rain chances are likely to continue into the first week of September, as the current heat wave is expected to stick around through at least Sept. 7, according to the weather service.
Related: With a heat wave roasting North Texas, when could Dallas cool off?
Despite brief storms Wednesday, most of Dallas-Fort Worth remained dry, adding to the region’s drought concerns. Parts of the state facing moderate drought have increased from 36.11% to 57.36% in the last week, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
The hot and dry conditions will also raise fire concerns, particularly west of Interstate 35, according to the weather service. Firefighters are continuing to battle the Ross fire in Palo Pinto County, as new grassfires pop up around the region.
The weather service extended its air quality alert through Saturday due to smoke from wildfires in the region.
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Related: Air quality in D-FW remains unhealthy for some groups due to the Ross fire
Residents should avoid activities that could spark a wildfire and never leave a fire unattended. The weather service recommends avoiding unnecessary outdoor burning while conditions remain dry.
Related: Wildfire threats are rising across North Texas. Here’s how to avoid starting one
SATURDAY: Mostly sunny and hot. High: 101. Wind: SE 5-10 mph.
SUNDAY: Mostly sunny and hot. Low: 79. High: 101. Wind: S 10-15 mph.
MONDAY: Mostly sunny and hot. Low: 80. High: 101. Wind: S 10-15 mph.
TUESDAY (SEPTEMBER BEGINS): Mostly sunny and hot. Low: 80. High: 101. Wind: S 10-15 mph.
WEDNESDAY: Mostly sunny and hot. Low: 80. High: 102. Wind: S 10-15 mph.
THURSDAY: Mostly sunny and hot. Low: 79. High: 102. Wind: S 10-15 mph.
Texas Tech lost some big defensive dudes after winning its first Big 12 Conference championship and making the College Football Playoff.Six of them were taken in the NFL draft last April, four in the first three rounds. Edge rusher David Bailey was picked No. 2 overall after an FBS-leading 14 1/2 sacks in his only season with the Red Raiders. He was on The Associated Press All-America first team with quarterback-turned-linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, their leading tackler the past two seasons who was fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting and...
Texas Tech lost some big defensive dudes after winning its first Big 12 Conference championship and making the College Football Playoff.
Six of them were taken in the NFL draft last April, four in the first three rounds. Edge rusher David Bailey was picked No. 2 overall after an FBS-leading 14 1/2 sacks in his only season with the Red Raiders. He was on The Associated Press All-America first team with quarterback-turned-linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, their leading tackler the past two seasons who was fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting and drafted in the second round.
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Even with all those players gone, the 12th-ranked Red Raiders could again have one of the nation’s top defenses. Coach Joey McGuire said they could actually be better because of their depth, including seven defensive tackles who have started college games.
“Yeah, I really do think the talent overall is way deeper. I mean, we’re three-deep on the D line. The whole secondary is back, way more experienced,” returning cornerback Brice Pollock said. “When you look at the linebackers, I think all of them can go to the league too. So I think we’re going to have even more draft picks this year.”
Well-funded Texas Tech again bolstered its roster with experienced players out of the transfer portal. It was similar to last year when adding the other since-departed draftees: third-team AP All-America defensive tackle Lee Hunter, edge rusher Romello Height, safety Cole Wisniewski and tackle Skyler Gill-Howard.
Bailey, after three seasons at Stanford, became the highest draft pick for the Red Raiders since tight end Dave Parks was their only first overall pick in 1964 by San Francisco. Three-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Patrick Mahomes was the 10th overall pick by Kansas City in 2017.
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Tech, which is home for its season opener Saturday night against FCS team Abilene Christian, also has back second-team AP All-America defensive tackle A.J. Holmes Jr. and fourth-year starting linebacker Ben Roberts, the defensive MVP in last year's Big 12 championship game when he had two interceptions.
“I think throughout the nation that we’re slowly earning that respect, is hey, we play defense in Lubbock, Texas,” Roberts said.
The Red Raiders were third nationally last season allowing 11.8 points and 258 total yards a game. That was 23 points and 203 yards less than 2024, the best year-by-year improvements by any FBS program since 2000. They had a national-best 32 takeaways last season, when 83.5% of the drives against them ended with a punt, turnover, or a turnover on downs.
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“This year, all around, I think at every position, we have guys at an elite caliber,” Roberts said. “Sure, they don’t have the same freakness that some of those guys had last year, but we play with a different level of effort and a different level of like knowing your job beforehand. So I think in that area this might be a better defense than we’ve ever seen at Tech.”
Holmes came to the Red Raiders from Houston with defensive coordinator Shiel Wood, and said he knew during the first spring practice in 2025 that they were going to be a top defense because of all the talent.
“The same feeling I got last year, I’m getting it again,” Holmes said.
There are a dozen defensive newcomers going into at least their fourth year in college, among them senior transfer edge rushers Adam Trick and Trey White.
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Trick had 12 1/2 tackles for losses last season at Miami (Ohio), and White at his hometown school San Diego State was one of only two players nationally with at least 19 sacks and 29 TFLs the past two seasons.
Wake Forest transfer Mateen Ibirogba was one of the top interior defensive lineman in the portal. Linebacker Austin Romaine had 184 tackles (110 solo) the past three seasons at Kansas State.
While they set a school record with 12 wins, and got a first-round playoff bye as a top-four seed, the 23-0 loss to Oregon in the Orange Bowl playoff quarterfinal still stings for the returning players.
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“You’re hungrier for more because the way we ended wasn’t well,” Holmes said. “So last year was just a stepping stone, now it’s time to take that next step.”
Pollock said they talk a lot more about that Orange Bowl loss than their overall success.
“Last year kind of feels like a bad dream. Not like a nightmare, like I’m having a good dream and it ended early,” Roberts said. “So you want to go back to sleep and finish the dream.”
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ARLINGTON, TX – The UT Arlington volleyball team opens the 2026 season Friday, Aug. 28, as they travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas, for the Razorback Invitational at the Barnhill Arena.The Mavericks open the tournament against UTSA at 4 p.m. CT Friday before facing SIUE at 11 a.m. on Saturday. UTA closes the weekend against host Arkansas at 7 p.m. on Saturday.UTA's matchup against Arkansas will be streamed on SEC Network+, while live stats will be available for all three matches.LIVE COVERAG...
ARLINGTON, TX – The UT Arlington volleyball team opens the 2026 season Friday, Aug. 28, as they travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas, for the Razorback Invitational at the Barnhill Arena.
The Mavericks open the tournament against UTSA at 4 p.m. CT Friday before facing SIUE at 11 a.m. on Saturday. UTA closes the weekend against host Arkansas at 7 p.m. on Saturday.
UTA's matchup against Arkansas will be streamed on SEC Network+, while live stats will be available for all three matches.
LIVE COVERAGE UTA vs UTSA (Friday 4 p.m. CT) Barnhill Arena, Fayetteville, Ark. Live Stats
UTA vs SIUE (Saturday 11 a.m. CT) Barnhill Arena, Fayetteville, Ark. Live Stats
UTA vs Arkansas (Saturday 7 p.m. CT) Barnhill Arena, Fayetteville, Ark. Live Stats SECN+
OVERVIEW ON LAST SEASON The Mavericks finished the 2025 season with an 11-14 overall record and a 3-9 mark in WAC play. The 2025 season marked the first season under head coach Tania Schatow as UTA continued to build on the program's tradition of success.
Throughout the season, the Mavericks established themselves as one of the WAC's strongest serving and defensive teams, leading the conference in service aces and aces per set at multiple points during the season.
MAVERICK SENIORITY UTA welcome 10 newcomers to the roster this season with senior Evyn Snook and junior Erica Dellesky serving as team captains. Lily Hopkins, Karisa Martin, Camryn McMinn and Lucy Tricco comprise the 2026 VB Leadership Committee.
The Mavericks' senior class of Snook, Hopkins, Hana Aiana and Samantha Glenn provides experience and leadership heading into the 2026 campaign.
EVYN SNOOK, SR., MAGNOLIA, TEXAS
HANA AIANA, SR., MOLOKAI, HAWAII – JAX STATE
SAMANTHA GLENN, SR., GRAPEVINE, TEXAS
LILY HOPKINS, SR., TOMBALL, TEXAS – ALABAMA
RETURNERS TO WATCH SOPHIA KRICHEV, SO., HUNTSVILLE, ALA.
CAMRYN MCMINN, SO., PELHAM, ALA.
NEWCOMERS TO WATCH KARISA MARTIN, JR., MONROE, WASH.
ERICA DELLESKY, JR., KATY, TEXAS
MAZI SMITH, SO., PAMPA, TEXAS – UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC
LUCY TRICCO, FR., AURORA, COLO.
DIXIE NESSL, FR., SONORA, CALIF.
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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — UT Arlington (1-0, 0-0 UAC) kicked off the Razorback Invitational, defeating UTSA (0-1, 0-0 American) in a 3-1 victory at Barnhill Arena on Friday. UTA secured the win with a strong fourth set, posting a .458 hitting percentage.HOW IT HAPPENEDThe opening set began with UT Arlington taking an early lead, fueled by efficient play from Camryn McMinn, who contributed multiple kills, including the first point from Erica Dellesky's assist. Karisa Martin and Sophia Krichev also added crucial po...
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — UT Arlington (1-0, 0-0 UAC) kicked off the Razorback Invitational, defeating UTSA (0-1, 0-0 American) in a 3-1 victory at Barnhill Arena on Friday. UTA secured the win with a strong fourth set, posting a .458 hitting percentage.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The opening set began with UT Arlington taking an early lead, fueled by efficient play from Camryn McMinn, who contributed multiple kills, including the first point from Erica Dellesky's assist. Karisa Martin and Sophia Krichev also added crucial points for the Mavericks, maintaining their advantage. As the set progressed, UTSA responded with key plays from Makinsey Jones and Ledisi Kpea, narrowing the gap. The set tightened as UTSA leveled the score at 22-22, but UTA regained control. A block by Lucy Tricco and Krichev and a final kill by McMinn, assisted by Tricco, secured the 25-23 win for UT Arlington.
The Mavericks started strong in the second set with early kills by Hana Aiana and Evyn Snook to establish a quick 2-0 lead. However, UTSA responded with a series of points, including consecutive service aces by Megan Hawkins, shifting momentum in its favor. Kpea and Ally Tribe were instrumental for the Roadrunners, contributing multiple kills and benefiting from UTA attack errors to build a significant lead. UTSA capitalized on service errors from UTA and continued its offensive pressure, closing out the set 25-13.
UTA maintained control early in the third set, capitalizing on UTSA attack errors and strong plays from Aiana and Krichev to establish a 14-6 lead. Tricco added to the momentum with two consecutive service aces, widening the gap. The Roadrunners attempted a comeback with Sydney Bryant and Tribe contributing kills, but UTA's lead remained intact. Despite a brief surge by UTSA, the Mavericks sealed the set at 25-20, concluding with a service error by UTSA.
UTA secured a commanding victory in the fourth set against UTSA, concluding the match with a 25-12 set win. Krichev was instrumental, delivering multiple kills and a block with Tricco, contributing significantly to UTA's scoring momentum. Snook also played a key role with several kills, including a pivotal one from Tricco's assist, helping maintain the lead. Isabella Camacho's service aces towards the end solidified the victory, with her final ace clinching the set and match for the Mavericks.
Game Notes
- Sophia Krichev contributed 13 kills on 23 attempts with a .565 hitting percentage and added 4 block assists, totaling 16 points.
- Freshman Lucy Tricco led the game with 25 assists.
- Samantha Glenn led the game with 19 digs.
- Hana Aiana added 10 kills on 15 attempts with a .467 hitting percentage, accumulating 10.5 points.
UP NEXT
UTA will play SIUE at Barnhill Arena in Fayetteville, Ark., on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 11 a.m., followed by one final game to close out the Razorback Invitational against host, Arkansas at 7 p.m.
--#BuckEm--
FOLLOW THE MAVS For the latest news on UTA Volleyball, log on to UTAMavs.com or stay connected to the Mavs on social media. Follow the Mavericks on X (formally known as Twitter) @UTAMavsVB, on Instagram @UTAMavsVB and on Facebook at Facebook.com/UTAMavsVB.
The inaugural Players Era Volleyball Showcase came to a close Sunday in Las Vegas, but not before the event delivered one of the most anticipated matches of the opening weeks of the college volleyball season.Saturday offered the first glimpse at each team, excluding Texas, which kicked off its season last week and Sunday gave teams one more chance to leave T-Mobile Arena with something to build on.No. 1 Nebraska Cruises Past No. 2 Texas In Straight SetsThe marquee match of the weekend didn't tur...
The inaugural Players Era Volleyball Showcase came to a close Sunday in Las Vegas, but not before the event delivered one of the most anticipated matches of the opening weeks of the college volleyball season.
Saturday offered the first glimpse at each team, excluding Texas, which kicked off its season last week and Sunday gave teams one more chance to leave T-Mobile Arena with something to build on.
The marquee match of the weekend didn't turn into the heavyweight fight many expected.
No. 1 Nebraska swept No. 2 Texas 25-19, 25-19, 25-16, controlling the Longhorns with its serving and defense to finish a perfect weekend in Las Vegas. Nebraska hit .293 while holding Texas to .152, adding ten blocks and seven service aces.
Texas actually found the better start in the opening set, taking an 8-5 advantage before the match flipped completely.
Behind the serve of senior setter Bergen Reilly, Nebraska ripped off 10 consecutive points to turn the three-point deficit into a 15-8 lead. Texas eventually worked its way back within two at 20-18, but Nebraska scored five of the final six points to take the set 25-19.
The Longhorns again jumped ahead early in the second, but another Nebraska run quickly erased the advantage. The Cornhuskers turned a 4-1 Texas lead into a 7-4 advantage and eventually stretched the margin to 18-10. Texas made another late push, but senior middle blocker Andi Jackson closed the set with a kill for another 25-19 Nebraska win.
By the third, there was little Texas could do to slow Nebraska down. The Cornhuskers broke a 5-5 tie with a 5-1 run and continued building separation from there before closing the match on four straight points for a 25-16 win.
Jackson led Nebraska with nine kills on a .571 hitting percentage, while sophomore middle blocker Manaia Ogbechie added seven kills and seven blocks. Sophomore outside hitter Cari Spears was one of Texas' few consistent offensive answers, leading all players with 12 kills.
For Texas, the loss capped an already difficult weekend after sophomore outside hitter Abby Vander Wal suffered a knee injury in Saturday's win over TCU. The Longhorns leave Las Vegas 2-2, with both losses coming against ranked opponents.
The final score, 3-0, may read like another routine sweep, but UNLV made TCU work for the last one.
After falling to Texas in three tightly contested sets, No. 18 TCU bounced back with a 25-17, 25-17, 33-31 sweep of UNLV to secure its first win of the season.
The Horned Frogs controlled the first two sets before the Rebels finally found their footing in the third. Trailing 20-15 and later 22-17, UNLV scored six of the next seven points to tie the set at 23 and turn what looked like another comfortable TCU win into the longest set of the showcase.
UNLV earned its first set point at 24-23, and neither side could find the two-point separation to end it. The Rebels eventually grabbed another lead at 31-30 on a senior opposite hitter and middle blocker kill, putting themselves one point away from forcing a fourth set.
TCU didn't let that happen.
The Horned Frogs tied the set at 31 before taking the next two points to finally close the marathon 33-31 and finish the sweep. UNLV junior outside hitter ended the match with a game-high 14 kills while hitting .265, but it wasn't enough to prevent the Rebels from falling.
TCU leaves Las Vegas at 1-1, while UNLV finishes the showcase without a single set victory.
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