Setting the Standard Pt. 1: Playmakers Who Run a Precise Offense

Setters are the heartbeat of every offense—reading blocks, calling tempo, and delivering precision with every touch. This group of six not only commanded the court with confidence but elevated their teams through vision, versatility, and leadership under pressure. Here are six setters who ran the show all weekend!    Though primarily listed as a DS, Mallory stepped into the setting role when her team needed it and executed beautifully. Her awareness and confidence in back row touches allowed her to adjust and deliver clean sets in tough situations. A true team player with excellent instincts. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Ella showed off her versatility by contributing to both defense and offense in a hybrid role. Her serve-receive work was crisp, and she brought her quick reaction time to setting as well—firing off back sets and quick balls with ease. She's the kind of athlete who fills in gaps and steps up wherever she's needed. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Young and fearless, Samantha showed maturity well beyond her years. She's a true dual threat as a setter and hitter, keeping defenses guessing. Her hands are clean, her footwork is polished, and she took command of her team's pace during high-pressure moments. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Though not the tallest on the court, Makenna played with the biggest heart. Her hustle and fast hands kept the offense in tempo even in tough passes. She rotated seamlessly with other setters and proved herself invaluable with her grit and timing. Her confidence as a floor general was evident in every match. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Lucy brings a rare combination of athleticism and control to the setter position. She stayed active on defense, covered second balls with confidence, and found opportunities to score on dumps and transition touches. She's a setter who makes everyone around her better—smart and steady under pressure. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Makenzie's leadership and rhythm were on full display, especially in out-of-system moments where her decision-making really shined. She ran a balanced offense with clean tempo and found ways to involve all three hitting options with poise. Vocal, confident, and composed—everything you want in a senior setter. ~ 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

Setters are the heartbeat of every offense—reading blocks, calling tempo, and delivering precision with every touch. This group of six not only commanded the court with confidence but elevated their teams through vision, versatility, and leadership under pressure. Here are six setters who ran the show all weekend!