Class of 2026 Watch List — On the Edge of Breakthrough (Part II)

This group isn't defined by flash—they're defined by feel. Athletes with strong match instincts, emerging leadership profiles, and skill sets that translate beyond system or level. They are becoming increasingly hard to ignore—not for what they did last season, but how much stronger, smarter, and more intentional their game looks now.   These six are rising fast, and the window for calling them “underrated” is closing    Campbell plays the game with refreshing clarity with early reads, controlled posture, and an instinctive ability to quiet chaos in long rallies. Her movements are measured, not frantic. Her platform stays calm under pressure. She doesn't just react, she anticipates. It doesn't take long watching her to realize she has the attributes college coaches trust most: discipline, consistency, and defensive vision. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Zaliyah plays bigger than her size and bigger than the moment. She's quick, but more importantly, she's smart quick, choosing efficient movements over flashy ones. Her defensive timing is excellent, and her serve-receive control is built around early footwork and balanced posture. There's a maturity to her game that quietly matches players currently ranked above her. She is trending upward and fast. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Jade carries real presence, both physical and emotional. Her swing is fast and athletic, but what really stands out is her balance and body control. She lands clean, transitions efficiently, and brings consistent power while staying in full control of her frame. She's beginning to look less like a good high school pin and more like a projectable collegiate prospect. She may not be ranked yet but she's knocking loudly. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Lily has entered that development stage where her movement, athleticism, and timing are aligning. Her blocking reads are sharper, her arm contact is cleaner, and her transitions have noticeably improved. She plays tall but also plays smart. She no longer just occupies space; she influences it. As she continues refining footwork and reaction timing, her ranking case strengthens. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Krystalyn is an instinctive competitor. She doesn't shy away from physical matchups and competes with a confident, grounded style. Her contact is clean, her timing controlled, and her defensive recovery is rapidly improving. She plays with a strong sense of court awareness and carries herself like someone who knows her value, without trying to prove it every swing. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Bryn is a cerebral setter who connects rhythm with composure. She sets without panic, communicates with intention, and doesn't disrupt tempo—she enhances it. Her ability to track defenders while maintaining body control in motion is college-level in feel. She's not ranked yet, but her style, growth, and intuition signal a player trending toward “official list” status soon. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    The skill is there. The growth is happening. The ceiling is rising.   And for some — the rankings may soon reflect it.   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

This group isn't defined by flash—they're defined by feel. Athletes with strong match instincts, emerging leadership profiles, and skill sets that translate beyond system or level. They are becoming increasingly hard to ignore—not for what they did last season, but how much stronger, smarter, and more intentional their game looks now.