Class of 2026 Farewell Series- MBs Who Owned the Net

Middle blockers don't just play volleyball — they change it. They erase angles, rewrite offensive options, and turn uncertainty into fear at the net. The Class of 2026 middles have been the backbone of Georgia volleyball for years, setting the physical standard with size, speed, and fearless presence.   As they begin their final high-school season, these seniors leave behind a statement: dominance at the net is non-negotiable.    Ana combines speed with intelligent anticipation, allowing her to beat the ball to the spot again and again. She is efficient as an attacker, calculated as a blocker, and fearless when the ball is above the tape. She's smart, scalable middle who has elevated her role each year and still has more room to climb. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Josie has grown into a technically sound and emotionally steady presence at the net. Her blocking form is clean and calculated, and she understands how to influence hitters before they even jump. She brings constant value always sealing seams, running tempo, and staying actively engaged in transition. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     A 6'3” force with elite upside, Riley brings both power and touch to the middle/right hybrid role. She elevates quickly, contacts high, and can score from multiple tempos. Her defensive reads continue to sharpen, making her a dual-threat middle who will be a nightmare for attackers through her senior year and beyond. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Kayla's fire is undeniable. She competes with grit, swings with purpose, and has never met a block she wasn't willing to challenge. Her combination of size and tenacity gives her a competitive edge and her ability to rise when the match gets tight speaks to who she is as a teammate and competitor. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     Brennan is a powerful, instinctive athlete whose energy fuels every rotation. She reads setters early, closes blocks with conviction, and brings real force as an attacker. Her growth into a confident, physical centerpiece has made her one of the state's most impactful interior defenders. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast     One of the most commanding forces in the class, Lily owns the middle with length, fast feet, and exceptional blocking timing. She moves pin-to-pin with urgency, takes away hitters' best angles, and converts transition balls into instant offense. Her presence alone shifts game plans. She is a true net-control middle who has set the bar high. ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast    These middle blockers have been the standard-setters — the disruptors who shaped defense and the finishers who ignited offense. Their contributions at the heart of the net have defined this class, and their final season will be a celebration of everything they've built.   Next up — a look at some of the Opposites & Right-Side Weapons of the Class of 2026.   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>   Building bridges between hustle and opportunity — that's the power of this community!  ~ Samantha Fitzgerald @BenchtoBeast

Middle blockers don't just play volleyball — they change it.
They erase angles, rewrite offensive options, and turn uncertainty into fear at the net. The Class of 2026 middles have been the backbone of Georgia volleyball for years, setting the physical standard with size, speed, and fearless presence.