Team to Watch: Stacked with Talent, Drive, and Future Stars

Some teams show promise. Others prove it. This squad doesn't just check boxes—they redefine what it means to be ready. With returning standouts, breakout underclassmen, and a Nike Player of the Year nominee at the helm, this group of hardworking, high-IQ athletes is absolutely one to watch.   What makes them dangerous? They're stacked at every position. Their work ethic shows in every rally. And they've got players who can take over a match from anywhere on the court. From first contact to final point, they bring intensity, leadership, and composure.   Here are six players who are already gaining attention—and deservingly so:    Dani Gross is the definition of a clutch utility player — the kind of athlete who thrives under pressure and finds her rhythm when the game is on the line. With smooth hands and a fast release, she keeps hitters in tempo and offenses flowing with ease. Her transition into a defensive role is just as seamless, proving her value as a multi-dimensional asset who can adapt mid-match without missing a beat. Whether she's setting or digging, Dani brings calm confidence and reliability that elevates everyone around her. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Every great team needs a rock in the back row — and for this squad, that's [player_tooltip player_id='798721' first='Shelby' last='Matteson']. She brings high energy, crisp footwork, and a clear love for defense to every match. Her serve-receive is stable, her pursuit is aggressive, and her communication keeps the team in rhythm. More than just a libero, Shelby is a culture-builder: she hustles for every ball, talks her teammates into big moments, and keeps the fire lit from start to finish. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Grace Hanson is the type of outside hitter that quietly dominates — and then keeps doing it. She understands timing, tempo, and ball control at a high level, and she's equally effective on serve receive and out-of-system attacks. Her swings are smart and intentional, and her ability to tool the block and work the deep corners shows veteran-level awareness. Grace is the definition of reliable, and every touch shows her maturity as a six-rotation threat. College-ready movement and mindset — Grace is a consistent standout on any court. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Claire Berry is a coach's dream in the middle. She reads the game exceptionally well, consistently getting herself in position to close blocks and pick up kills in transition. Her footwork and timing show a next-level feel for the game, and her quiet consistency is something recruiters will love. Claire doesn't need the spotlight — she earns it with every block, every point, every game. Steady, efficient, and climbing — Claire is a true impact middle. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Macurdy Harden is one of the most versatile players in her class — a powerful dual-threat who can take command of the court from either the front row or the setter's zone. Her smooth footwork and confident reads make her a setter you can trust to run tempo, but it's her swing that often leaves a lasting impression. With a clean, fast arm and fearless placement, Macurdy consistently finds ways to score. Her poise under pressure and relentless energy set the tone for her team, and she's proven she can lead both vocally and by example. Keep this freshman on your radar — she's building into a high-level six-rotation prospect. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    Note to GA Athletes: If I didn't get the chance to write about you this week — I see you and I appreciate your game! I covered as many players as I could at AAU Nationals, but with limited time and so many talented athletes, I couldn't feature everyone. If you'd like to be considered for future coverage, please send me your high school season schedule and share a little bit about yourself so I can come support you and share your story. Let's keep building Georgia volleyball together! Fill out the "Cover My Game" Link in my bio @benchtobeast on IG   <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 your 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 @BenchtoBeast

Some teams show promise. Others prove it.
This squad doesn't just check boxes—they redefine what it means to be ready. With returning standouts, breakout underclassmen, and a Nike Player of the Year nominee at the helm, this group of hardworking, high-IQ athletes is absolutely one to watch.