Fortress at the Net: Middle Blockers to Watch Pt. 1

When it comes to volleyball defense, middle blockers are the first to respond and the last to be forgotten. They set the tone with every block, disrupting offensive rhythms and forcing hitters to change their game. Georgia's top middle blockers aren't just swatting balls—they're shifting momentum, owning space, and leading with presence. Here are the athletes anchoring their teams with size, speed, and unmatched timing.    Alexa is a name every coach in Georgia should have on their radar. With a staggering 1.8 blocks per set, she's a wall at the net and a game-changer in every rotation. Her timing is sharp, her hands are disciplined, and her transitions from block to quick attack are seamless. Alexa plays with the kind of command and composure that signals D1 potential—she's not just reactive; she's proactive, cutting off lanes before hitters even swing. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Riley is quietly having one of the most consistent middle blocker seasons in Georgia. Her block numbers are elite, but it's her movement and anticipation that really separate her. She's smart, efficient, and knows how to press over the net with force. Whether it's a big stuff or a soft redirect, Riley's ability to control the tempo at the net makes her a standout in a stacked class. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Anaya is only getting started. With solid numbers already under her belt, she's poised to be a major front-row weapon. Her strength and length give her a high blocking ceiling, and with continued touches, she could emerge as one of Georgia's most intimidating net presences in the 2027 class. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Scarlett is a dynamic middle who thrives on reading offenses quickly and responding with impact. Her 1.5 blocks/set puts her among the top in efficiency, and she doesn't stop at defense—she's got a fast arm on the slide and is a consistent offensive threat. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Lyla brings tenacity and consistency to the net. Her ability to track quick sets and execute timely closes is a huge asset to Unity Christian's defense. She's also proven to be an efficient attacker in transition—expect her to become a high-impact player as her blocking continues to evolve. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Scarlett complements her front-row teammate with her own commanding presence at the net. She reads hitters like a book, closes blocks efficiently, and doesn't shy away from physical matchups. Her energy on the court is both steady and aggressive—exactly what you'd expect from a dominant middle. With numbers to match her impact, Scarlett is a rising prospect with the tools to thrive at the next level. ~ 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

When it comes to volleyball defense, middle blockers are the first to respond and the last to be forgotten. They set the tone with every block, disrupting offensive rhythms and forcing hitters to change their game. Georgia's top middle blockers aren't just swatting balls—they're shifting momentum, owning space, and leading with presence. Here are the athletes anchoring their teams with size, speed, and unmatched timing.