Juneteenth Spotlight: 10 Athletes to Know

On a day that celebrates freedom across our nation, it's important to recognize the full journey that brought us here. While July 4 marks independence, Juneteenth reminds us that freedom wasn't granted equally, and the fight for justice continues. Today, we proudly spotlight 10 athletes who were honored in our Juneteenth post. These players exemplify excellence, strength, and purpose both on and off the court.    Kendall Omoruyi, a 2027 middle blocker and right-side hitter draws deep pride and motivation from her African-American heritage. To her, it represents resilience, community, and perseverance, values that fuel her drive to excel and break barriers in the sport. Her heritage instills a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, inspiring her to lead by example and promote inclusivity both on and off the court.   Kendall credits her mother and her club coach, Terri Spann, as the two most influential figures in her volleyball journey. Her mom has always been her biggest supporter, teaching her the importance of hard work and perseverance. That encouragement has helped Kendall push through challenges with confidence and purpose. Coach Terri has played a key role in shaping both her skillset and mindset. With a focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and sportsmanship, she has helped Kendall grow not only as an athlete but also as a person.   To younger African-American athletes with big dreams, Kendall offers a powerful message: embrace your heritage as a source of strength and let it fuel your journey. She encourages others to believe in themselves, even when the path is difficult, and to surround themselves with people who uplift and support them. She believes that hard work, authenticity, and integrity go hand in hand, and she urges the next generation to use their journeys to inspire others. For Kendall, success is not just about individual achievement, it's about paving the way and creating lasting impact. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='578520' first='Mackenzi' last='Law'], a versatile 2027 middle blocker, right-side, and outside hitter for [program_tooltip program_id='432025' first='OK' last='Charge'] 16UA, carries her African-American heritage with pride. For her, it serves as a daily reminder of resilience and strength, qualities that show up in her play and approach to the game.   Mackenzi draws inspiration from her father, whose basketball journey through college and into the NBA has left a lasting impact on her. His ability to overcome obstacles has shaped her mindset and commitment to achieving her goals through hard work and belief in herself.   To younger African-American athletes with big dreams, Mackenzi offers a clear message: always be yourself, and never let anyone limit or dictate what you can achieve. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     Samira Washington, a 2027 middle blocker, outside hitter, and right-side for Tsunami Cobb 16-1 Elite Sara, carries a deep connection to her African-American heritage. For Samira, it means embracing the freedom to define her own path, not the one society expects. It's about pushing beyond limitations, overcoming challenges others may never face, and honoring the sacrifices made by those who came before her. She plays with purpose, knowing her ancestors protested for a future she now steps into. Every time she steps on the court, she competes with full effort and intention, driven by the belief that their fight was not for her to live in mediocrity.   Her maternal great-grandmother is the person who inspires her most. Born into a time when young girls were married off as a norm, she was married at 12, escaped, and was forced into another marriage at 13. Now 91, her perseverance and strength left a lasting legacy. When Samira faces challenges, she remembers that legacy and uses it as fuel. Her great-grandmother's resilience is why she trains outside of practice, puts in the extra hours, and never settles. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='391078' first='Memphis' last='Burnett'], a 2026 outside hitter who plays for Tstreet Volleyball and Santa Margarita Catholic High School, carries her heritage with pride and purpose. For Memphis, being African-American means strength, resilience, and identity, especially in environments where she is often the only one who looks like her. She understands that she represents generations of people who had to work twice as hard to be seen, heard, and respected, even in spaces like the volleyball court. That awareness has shaped her work ethic. She plays with the understanding that it's more than just a game, and brings that same resilience to every rep and every match.   Her father is her greatest inspiration. Raised by a widowed Black mother, he defied the odds to reach the NFL and built a life rooted in strength, determination, and love. Memphis credits him for instilling in her that same drive and for reminding her why she plays. He constantly brings her back to the legacy she represents and the opportunities she now has because of those who came before her.   To younger African-American athletes with big goals, Memphis shares a message of affirmation and courage. You belong, in every gym, on every team, and in every dream you chase. Don't let being the only one who looks like you make you shrink. Keep showing up, stay true to yourself, and remember that this journey is about more than you. Keep going, for those who paved the way and those who will follow. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='538286' first='Trinity' last='Wright'], a 2028 middle blocker and outside hitter for Forza1 North 15 ONES and Etiwanda Varsity Volleyball, finds deep strength in her African-American heritage. For her, it represents the power and perseverance of her ancestors who fought to keep her family's legacy alive. Being the only player on the court who looks like her has shaped her mindset as an athlete. She plays with a quiet determination, holding herself to a high standard and refusing to let that strength falter.   Trinity credits her cousin for first introducing her to volleyball and her mother for making her continued journey in the sport possible. Her mom's commitment, from covering costs to driving her to practices and tournaments, has been a steady source of motivation. She also draws inspiration from Team USA's Jordan Thompson, whose success deepened Trinity's love for the sport and gave her someone to look up to.   Her advice to younger African-American athletes is simple but powerful: never let anyone box you in or diminish your potential. Trinity has faced questions and doubt, even from adults, about why she continues to play on teams where she stands out. But through eight years in the sport, she has learned to ignore the noise and instead focus on those who see her for who she is and respect the way she plays. Her message is one of resilience, self-worth, and unwavering pride in the journey she's chosen. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='708497' first='Lailah' last='Clayborne'], a 2028 middle blocker and opposite for King Drew High School, embraces her African-American identity with strength and pride. For Lailah, being Black means being strong, beautiful, and empowered by the resilience of those who came before her. It shapes not only who she is as a person, but also how she views her role in the sport. She chooses to define herself on her own terms and sees volleyball as a space where she can create change. Lailah aspires to become a recognizable figure in the game, someone who paves the way for more young Black girls to enter the sport with confidence and pride.   Her parents have been her biggest influences. From an early age, they instilled in her a deep sense of cultural pride and placed her in a club environment that celebrates diversity. Their support has helped her grow into a player who is comfortable in her skin, open to new experiences, and grounded in humility. That foundation has shaped her ability to thrive with any team and connect with teammates from all backgrounds.   To younger African-American athletes, Lailah offers valuable perspective. She encourages them to avoid falling into the trap of comparison and to understand that every athlete has a unique journey. Growth comes through effort, consistency, and a coachable attitude. With the right mindset, anything is possible, and success may come in ways you never expected. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='666282' first='Kamryn' last='Jackson'], a 2026 pin hitter for Oklahoma Peak 17-1s, carries her African-American heritage with pride and purpose. For her, it represents resilience, strength, and community. She draws inspiration from a rich cultural history and the achievements of those who came before her. That legacy motivates her to persevere through challenges both on and off the court, fueling her determination and reminding her that she is part of something bigger than herself. Her identity shapes how she plays with pride, grit, and a deep respect for unity and team support.   Kamryn's parents are the cornerstone of her journey. Her mother has been her strongest cheerleader since day one, the reason she picked up a volleyball, and a constant presence in the stands and beyond, whether filming highlights, offering encouragement, or simply sharing a favorite meal. Her father is her trusted trainer and motivator, always ready with a workout plan, honest feedback, or words of belief in her potential. Kamryn also finds inspiration in her younger sister, who she hopes to uplift through her example. She plays not only for herself but to show her sister what's possible with confidence and resilience.   To younger African-American athletes, Kamryn offers a message of empowerment. You do not have to conform to anyone else's narrative. You are more than enough. Stay grounded in your truth and keep working with heart, knowing that your authentic self is your greatest strength. The path may feel lonely at times, but with faith, love, and a strong support system, you will thrive. Trust that your light has purpose, and keep shining. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='714028' first='Yemaya' last='Chappell'], a 2029 middle blocker for Actyve, considers her African-American heritage central to who she is. Her cultural identity has played a key role in shaping her confidence as a volleyball player. By exploring and embracing who she is, Yemaya has developed a strong sense of self that allows her to compete with purpose and presence on the court and carry that same confidence into her life beyond the game.   Her father has been her greatest inspiration. A former Division I basketball player who competed at Duke and won an NCAA Championship at Michigan State, he went on to play professionally overseas. His experience and dedication continue to influence Yemaya's journey as an athlete. He teaches her the importance of work ethic, goal setting, and mental preparation. Whether he's cheering from the sidelines or playing affirmations and uplifting music during their car rides to school and volleyball, his encouragement remains constant.   To younger athletes, Yemaya offers a simple but powerful message. The first step to becoming great is having the mindset of a great athlete. Set goals, stay focused, and put in the work needed to achieve them. Confidence starts from within, and success follows those who are willing to prepare for it. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='471111' first='Anaya' last='Francois'], a 2026 outside and right-side hitter for [program_tooltip program_id='579941' first='Brusa' last='Volleyball Club'], draws pride and motivation from her African-American and Haitian-American heritage. She was raised to understand that she comes from people who were strong, resilient, and determined, individuals who shaped history in both America and Haiti. Their legacy drives her to take full advantage of the opportunities she now has, including the ability to play the game she loves. On the court, her identity reminds her to define her value through hard work and skill, regardless of the environment. She finds inspiration in players like Madi Skinner and the presence of impactful Black coaches, all of whom have helped shape her belief that she belongs and can thrive in the sport.   Her mother is the person who inspires her most. She sees Anaya's potential, even when Anaya struggles to see it herself. Her mom supports her in every way, waking up early to make meals before tournaments, attending every match she can, and always offering thoughtful advice. Whether in moments of success or challenge, her mother's consistent support and sacrifices serve as daily motivation.   To younger Black girls entering the sport, Anaya offers sincere and grounded advice. Stay internally motivated and focused on your own goals. Find someone to look up to and adopt their positive habits. Most importantly, define success by your own standards, not someone else's. When you do that, your journey becomes more fulfilling, and the right people will recognize your growth and value along the way. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247     [player_tooltip player_id='745713' first='Rhylie' last='Fairley'], a 2032 six-rotation outside hitter for Sunshine Hurricanes, connects deeply with her African-American heritage. For her, it represents courage, resilience, and hard work. She draws strength from a history of individuals who fought for every opportunity, and that legacy fuels her daily efforts in life and in volleyball. Her identity motivates her to compete with purpose, playing not just to win, but to represent her culture, her family, and the community that stands behind her. Volleyball is more than a game for Rhylie; it is a way to carry a legacy forward with pride.   She credits her private coach, Coach Uche, as her greatest influence in the sport. A former professional player, Coach Uche brings deep knowledge and energy to every session. He challenges Rhylie to push beyond her limits and helps her build confidence, even when she's trying something new. His belief in growth through practice has shaped her work ethic and her mindset. He's more than just a coach to her, he's a role model and motivator who makes her want to keep getting better.   Though early in her volleyball journey, Rhylie already offers powerful advice to younger African-American athletes. She encourages them to work hard, even when no one is watching, and to take pride in standing out. Being the only one who looks like you on a team can be tough, but it's also a sign of strength. Rhylie believes your difference is your power. Her message is clear: be confident, be kind, and know that you belong, on the court, in the conversation, and in every space you dream of occupying. ~ Michelle Bamford @coachable247    <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   If you're an athlete looking to explore opportunities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, don't miss the HBCU Showcase in Las Vegas. While this is not a PrepDig-operated event, both Vegas Scouts Kantessa Bryant-Miller and I will be in attendance and scouting talent.   📆 Date: July 13, 2025 ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM 📍 Location: It's All Volleyball, 530 E Pamalyn, Las Vegas 🔗 Register: <a class="" href="http://www.blackvolleyballcircuit.com">www.</a><a href="http://www.blackvolleyballcircuit.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">blackvolleyballcircuit</a><a class="" href="http://www.blackvolleyballcircuit.com">.com</a> Use Code: PREPDIG   🎓 Current College Programs Attending: Dillard University, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Alabama A&M University, Alcorn State University, Fort Valley State University, College of Southern Nevada, Philander Smith College.   Spots are filling quickly...don't miss this opportunity to connect directly with HBCU coaches and elevate your recruiting journey.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">If you enjoyed this article, please help us keep the momentum going!</h3>   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_b3bd7c.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770392" /></figure>     ✨ Help a player get discovered — share this article using the share buttons and tag us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prepdigca/?hl=en">PrepDigCa</a>!   <figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/"><img src="https://prepdig.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2025/04/image_ff10cb.png" alt="" class="wp-image-770394" style="width:98px;height:auto" /></a></figure>   🚀 <a href="https://prepdig.com/my-account/subscriptions/">Upgrade to a PrepDig+ Subscription</a> — exclusive rankings, in-depth analysis, and access to the full <a href="https://prepdig.com/prospect-index/">prospect index</a>.     <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   July marks a key transition: club tryouts are here, and high school season is just around the corner. It's the perfect time to read more articles, build confidence, and support prospects by sharing this article.   To our incredible subscribers — thank you for being such an essential part of this journey. Together, we're growing the game, one rep, one article, and one athlete at a time.   This movement is powered by the village — athletes, coaches, families, and the community that believes in what's possible.   Thank you for making today's wins matter — one article, one player, one memory at a time.   ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

On a day that celebrates freedom across our nation, it's important to recognize the full journey that brought us here. While July 4 marks independence, Juneteenth reminds us that freedom wasn't granted equally, and the fight for justice continues. Today, we proudly spotlight 10 athletes who were honored in our Juneteenth post. These players exemplify excellence, strength, and purpose both on and off the court.