At 6’2″, Arielle Johnson Arielle Johnson 6'2" | RS/OH Pulaski Academy | 2028 AR has the size and power to take a big step for defending 4A state champion Pulaski Academy as the Bruins make their own big step into Class 5A. After a strong club season where Johnson gained valuable experience working as a six-rotation right side, she looks poised for a breakout year. Arielle was accidentally classified as a 2028 in the rankings, but she is a 2029 and one of the top players in the class.

The key for Johnson in 2026 is growth. She has the size. She has the power. Now it’s about fine-tuning the technical parts of her game that come with experience. Improved footwork, reading blockers better, and becoming more consistent with her shots could take her game into the stratosphere. Those are things every young hitter has to learn, especially when you can already swing it as hard as Johnson can.

PA lost some important pieces from last year’s championship team but returns plenty of firepower with Elizabeth Castillo Elizabeth Castillo 5'11" | OH/RS Pulaski Academy | 2028 State AR , Rachel Ardoin Rachel Ardoin 5'11" | OH/DS/L Pulaski Academy | 2028 State AR , and State Championship MVP Sophie Greenwood Sophie Greenwood 5'10" | MB Pulaski Academy | 2027 AR . Johnson will have an opportunity to push for court time on one of the top 5A teams in the state. If the technical side starts catching up with the physical tools, look out.

Competing at the AVCA Phenom Showcase gave Arielle Johnson Arielle Johnson 6'2" | RS/OH Pulaski Academy | 2029 AR a clearer understanding of what college volleyball demands, both physically and mentally. Lining up alongside some of the top athletes in the country pushed her to raise her own standards and reinforced that she belongs at this level.

Arielle takes pride in staying calm and reliable in pressure moments. As a right side, she values being a consistent and trustworthy attacker when points matter most. She believes her size, versatility, and mental toughness separate her when the game tightens.

What stood out most in Arielle’s reflection was her emphasis on discipline, consistency, and coachability. She understands that success at the next level requires balance, strong time management, accountability, and commitment on and off the court. Her advice to younger players focused on trusting the process, prioritizing fundamentals, embracing feedback, and enjoying the journey.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247