Kudzu Classic 2025: Young Players Showing Big Game Early

While the spotlight often shines on the older age groups during club season, a rising wave of talent is already making its presence known. The Class of 2029 and 2030 may be years away from the recruiting conversation, but their skill, composure, and leadership are impossible to ignore. These young setters and liberos are already playing with the confidence and consistency of seasoned athletes — and they're just getting started.    Catherine doesn't just run the offense — she sets the tone for everyone around her. With quick, consistent hands, smooth transitions, and sharp decision-making, she controls the tempo with calm confidence. What sets her apart is her energy: she encourages not only her teammates but even players across the net. A true floor general, Catherine brings elite communication, next-level court vision, and a personality that lifts the entire gym. A poised play-maker with both heart and high-level skill. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     Morgan is already defending like a seasoned libero. Her killer jump serve puts pressure on opponents, and her movement in and out of defensive transitions is smooth and efficient. She delivers consistent passes, covers her hitters with discipline, and communicates relentlessly throughout each point. Vocal, composed, and unshakable under pressure, Morgan brings intensity and leadership far beyond her years — a true anchor in the back row. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     At just 12 years old, Emersyn is playing up not just as a setter but also libero— and shes holding her own against older competition. She's a natural floor leader with nonstop hustle, sharp movement, and a setter's touch that's both consistent and composed. Whether she's covering her hitters, dishing out smart sets, or dropping into defense for a clean 3-pass, Emersyn is everywhere. She plays with joy, encourages her teammates constantly, and absorbs feedback like a sponge. Positive, coachable, and confident — she's one of the youngest athletes on the floor, but already one of the most impactful. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     [player_tooltip player_id='771769' first='Ansley' last='Davenport'] is a setter with poise, precision, and presence. She gets her feet to the ball, runs the offense with purpose, and consistently finds her hitters in rhythm. Her decision-making is mature, her movement is efficient, and her calm confidence shines through every rotation. Vocal, scrappy, and steady under pressure, Ansley is already leading like a seasoned floor general — the kind of setter every coach wants guiding the team. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald     Sara is a “make-it-happen” setter — the kind of player who thrives under pressure and keeps her team in rhythm. She chases down tough balls, delivers clean, strategic sets, and communicates like a true floor general. Her footwork is steady, her vision is sharp, and her leadership is both vocal and uplifting. Gritty, composed, and full of hustle, Sara's consistency and command are rare at her age — and her upside is undeniable. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald        <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, show your support by following <a href="https://www.instagram.com/benchtobeast/">BenchtoBeast</a> for exclusive Georgia content, behind-the-scenes action, and a closer look at the volleyball community you love.</h3>   We're on a mission to spotlight talent, uplift families, and bring the volleyball community closer than ever! Huge shoutout to our amazing subscribers — you're the heartbeat of this movement. Thank you for you help growing the game, and making every moment unforgettable. The best is yet to come — let's get it!   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   Building bridges between hustle and opportunity — that's the power of this community! ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtBeast

While the spotlight often shines on the older age groups during club season, a rising wave of talent is already making its presence known. The Class of 2029 and 2030 may be years away from the recruiting conversation, but their skill, composure, and leadership are impossible to ignore. These young setters and liberos are already playing with the confidence and consistency of seasoned athletes — and they're just getting started.