MB to Watch, Game Changers at the Net: Varsity Gold Pt 2

While outside hitters often steal the show, middle blockers are the engine of a team's tempo and toughness. These six athletes from the Rally Cup may not all be on your radar yet, but their performances in the Varsity Power Gold Division proved they're integral to their team's success — with footspeed, vertical explosiveness, and a sharp eye for reading the game.    Ava Kate flies under the radar, but her presence at the net is undeniable. She closes blocks with precision and brings a calm, technical approach to every point. Her ability to swing off the quick or convert from the right side adds versatility to Hebron's already stacked front row. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     A rising star with a college-ready build, Jennie is a freshman with a veteran's court sense. She communicates well, times her blocks beautifully, and brings a fast arm on the slide. Her development in the next two years will be fun to watch. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Chloe brings senior leadership and stability to the middle. She's a strong blocker who consistently seals the net and transitions with power. Her ability to close the block on pin attackers makes her a huge asset in high-stakes moments. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Don't let her height fool you — Rilynn plays big. She has excellent lateral speed and uses her timing to put up effective blocks against some of the tournament's top outside hitters. Her energy is contagious and her grit on quick balls is a highlight of McIntosh's defense. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Another promising talent from McIntosh, Danika brings both power and patience. She reads opposing offenses well and gets her hands across quickly on blocks. Her slide is clean, and her fast approach makes her a consistent scoring option. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Though slightly undersized, Ari is tenacious. She makes up for her height with strong footwork and relentless pursuit of the ball. Her effort and consistency keep her in every play — a scrappy middle who brings a fighter's mindset to the court. ~ 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

While outside hitters often steal the show, middle blockers are the engine of a team's tempo and toughness. These six athletes from the Rally Cup may not all be on your radar yet, but their performances in the Varsity Power Gold Division proved they're integral to their team's success — with footspeed, vertical explosiveness, and a sharp eye for reading the game.