GIAA Leaders of Tomorrow

The close of this season not only wraps up another exciting chapter of high school volleyball but also sets the stage for who will take the reins moving forward. These players have already shown leadership qualities, whether through their presence on the floor, their ability to rally teammates, or their versatility in filling gaps. Their next test will be carrying that same influence into club season — and eventually into the next fall — where their growth could define their programs' direction.    Madelyn has shown flashes of two-way dominance, capable of producing both as a middle and on the pin. Her length and athleticism are clear strengths, and as she develops her timing and consistency, next season I see her stepping up as one of Heritage's most reliable leaders at the net. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Hannah gave her team a dependable anchor at the net. Her length and blocking instincts disrupted opposing hitters, while her ability to transition into quick offense made her a two-way threat. She'll be a name to watch as she makes the jump into her first year of college volleyball. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Sarai impressed with her athleticism and willingness to take on big swings. She blocked well for her age and isn't afraid to battle older players at the net. Club season should help her refine her technique and build consistency, paving the way for her to become one of the program's cornerstones. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Isa showed poise beyond her years in her first varsity season. Quick-footed and fearless, she made her mark in serve receive and found ways to contribute at the net as well. Club play will give her valuable reps to round out her skillset and gain confidence against older competition. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Tori brought energy and attacking range to her team. Whether tooling the block or rolling shots to the corners, she showed creativity in scoring. With more physical strength and experience on the club circuit, she has the chance to become a true go-to outside hitter. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Mariah was one of those players every team needs — steady, reliable, and committed to the dirty work. She kept rallies alive with her defensive reads and quick digs. With another year ahead before her upperclassman seasons, she'll continue developing into a defensive leader. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    These six athletes each carry different strengths but the same upward trajectory. From Hannah closing out her high school career to Isa and Sarai just beginning theirs, this group shows why the future of Georgia volleyball looks so bright. The months ahead in club ball will be crucial in shaping their next steps, and it'll be exciting to see how much further they can push their games.   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 close of this season not only wraps up another exciting chapter of high school volleyball but also sets the stage for who will take the reins moving forward. These players have already shown leadership qualities, whether through their presence on the floor, their ability to rally teammates, or their versatility in filling gaps. Their next test will be carrying that same influence into club season — and eventually into the next fall — where their growth could define their programs' direction.