Breakthrough Underclassmen Poised to Tilt the 2A Bracket

The GHSA 2A tournament isn't just a showcase for senior stars—it's a proving ground for underclassmen who can change the momentum of a playoff match with one swing, one serve, or one defensive stand. Across Alpharetta, Lovett, and Burke County, several young athletes are emerging as difference-makers right when their teams need them most.    Ra'Shanna brings power and length to the Bears' frontline. Her ability to swing aggressively from both the middle and outside makes her a matchup nightmare. What stands out is her work ethic in transition—Heath doesn't just attack, she resets fast and contributes in blocking and coverage. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Only a freshman, Kameron has already proven she can run a varsity offense. Her sets are clean, her ball distribution shows vision, and she isn't intimidated by older competition. For Burke County, she represents the future—an anchor who could grow into one of the region's top setters. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Paige is a steady presence who thrives in the little details that don't always show up on the stat sheet. She's a strong rotation player who keeps plays alive with scrappy defense and brings composure in long rallies. Her court awareness and energy make her a glue piece for Lovett's postseason push. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Londyn is a versatile weapon who has stepped up in clutch moments this fall. She attacks with confidence from either pin and adds value with her serve consistency and defensive awareness. Her all-around impact has already earned her recognition as Player of the Match multiple times. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Ryan is a young player with maturity beyond her years. She reads the game well defensively and has already proven she can hold her own against elite competition. Her ability to stabilize serve receive and extend rallies gives North Cobb Christian consistency, and her growth trajectory suggests she'll be a cornerstone for the Eagles in the seasons to come. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Ember,s defensive instincts are advanced for her age. She reads hitters with patience, covers tips and short balls, and shows solid fundamentals in serve receive. As she continues to gain varsity reps, she has the tools to grow into a defensive cornerstone for her program. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    The 2A bracket is stacked with talent, but it may be the freshmen and sophomores who ultimately decide how far their teams advance. Alpharetta has the edge with Velugoti's leadership at setter and Lamar's dominance on the pins. Still, Burke County's underclass trio—Heath, Habersham, and Williams—gives the Bears depth that few programs can match. If these young stars keep their momentum, don't be surprised to see them push Alpharetta and Lovett deeper into the bracket than many expect.   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

The GHSA 2A tournament isn't just a showcase for senior stars—it's a proving ground for underclassmen who can change the momentum of a playoff match with one swing, one serve, or one defensive stand. Across Alpharetta, Lovett, and Burke County, several young athletes are emerging as difference-makers right when their teams need them most.