Pins Ready for 2026: Practice Coverage From M2 and Ichiban

When we step into these practices, it becomes clear fast: pin attackers aren't just scoring options — they're momentum shifters. They decide the pace, the pressure, and the emotional rhythm of the gym. And watching M2 and Ichiban work live reps last week, these hitters stood out not because they were flashy, but because of how consistently they gave to their teams.   Their effort expanded the environment. Their decisions stabilized rotations. Their presence changed the feel of the gym.   Here are five attackers who made the biggest impact in training.    Coaches called her a smart hitter, and that's exactly what showed up in practice. Simone sees the court early, chooses the right shot instead of the loud one, and gives her team steadiness when the play gets messy. Outside volleyball, she sings in choir and creates music — a calm, creative energy that mirrors how she plays: composed, thoughtful, and consistent. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     Stella carries real presence at the pin. She hits with power, but more importantly, she understands when to apply it. Her approach footwork was clean throughout practice, and her ability to terminate early in rallies changed the tempo of drills. She's on student council, loves hiking, is close with her family, and dreams of playing at Kentucky. Volleyball is her favorite place to compete — and it shows. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast       Coaches described her as committed and high‑IQ, and that held true. Olivia doesn't rush plays — she reads the block, finds gaps, and plays with intention. Her ability to contribute both defensively and offensively brought balance to every rep she touched. She loves art and architecture, hopes to study at Belmont, and started volleyball at eight. Her long-term investment in her craft shows up in her consistency. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     Rowan is controlled and smooth — the kind of hitter who rarely looks rushed. She adjusts her swing mid‑air, fixes her timing without overthinking, and plays with a maturity beyond her age. She's currently taking AP courses, loves psychological thrillers, and wants to study psychology. Louisville and Kentucky are on her radar. Her analytical nature translates into the way she reads the game. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast     One of the youngest players we watched, but you wouldn't know it. Milan is coachable, willing to try, and brings early discipline to her rep quality. She tracks the ball well for her age and stays aggressive in transition. She has a twin brother who also plays volleyball, speaks French, and was born on Juneteenth. Her curiosity and openness show up in her play — she listens, adapts, and improves quickly. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast    Watching attackers in practice tells you something you can't always see in games — how they reset after errors, how they communicate before a play, and how much they're willing to give to keep a rotation stable. These five brought effort that multiplied the energy of the gym, and that's the kind of impact that deserves recognition.   Note to GA Athletes:   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>   Work hard, Play hard. ~ Z.R. Nix @BenchtoBeast

When we step into these practices, it becomes clear fast: pin attackers aren't just scoring options — they're momentum shifters. They decide the pace, the pressure, and the emotional rhythm of the gym. And watching M2 and Ichiban work live reps last week, these hitters stood out not because they were flashy, but because of how consistently they gave to their teams.