Class of 2026 Watch List: Who will Break into Final Rankings? Pt1

Some players aren't just developing—they're emerging. They're building presence, refining touch, shaping their game through maturity, consistency, and high-level projection. As our final Class of 2026 ranking update approaches, these athletes are creating real momentum—not just through highlights, but through identity, growth, and competitive scalability.   Here are six players steadily making their case:    Audrey has the kind of frame and fluidity that changes how a front row operates. She brings length and coordination, but what stands out most is how naturally she reads the game with expert timing, slowing down her approach, shaping her block, absorbing tempo. She's physically gifted, yes—but she's learning how to control the game, not just participate in it. Coaches won't want to let this one slip past early. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Kate plays with rhythm and a refined feel for contact. Her swing is smooth, her footwork clean, and she never appears rushed even in high-tempo breakdowns. She's a high-IQ pin who finds space, not just height. The way she controls her approach and maintains posture through contact? That's projection material. She's gaining traction for a reason. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Isabella is a libero with presence, you feel her before you hear her. Isabella isn't just reactive; she's anticipatory. Her reads come early, her movement is efficient, and her ability to steer serve-receive patterns sets her apart. She tracks seams, shifts angles, and anchors defensive rhythm with composure. There's a maturity in her game that suggests she may be trending toward joining the Elite List soon. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Kendyl doesn't just deliver sets; she creates scenarios and orchestrates plays. Composed, rhythmic, and quietly confident, she manages tempo with intelligence rather than flash. Her game isn't simply about placement—it's about influence. The kind of setter who makes her team better whether she's scoring or distributing ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Alexis brings powerful court presence with strong posture, disciplined blocking form, and a determined attacking style that's beginning to transition from raw to refined. She doesn't just swing; she targets. She doesn't just jump; she tracks. There's controlled explosiveness in her game now, and that's when middles become invaluable long-term. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    Some athletes earn rankings through highlights. Others earn them through evolution. This group? They're earning it with both.   Keep an eye out—because the next rankings update will look different.   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

Some players aren't just developing—they're emerging. They're building presence, refining touch, shaping their game through maturity, consistency, and high-level projection. As our final Class of 2026 ranking update approaches, these athletes are creating real momentum—not just through highlights, but through identity, growth, and competitive scalability.