We’ve enjoyed watching Kate Hayes Kate Hayes 5'9" | OH/RS Pinnacle | 2028 State AZ develop throughout the season, particularly her growth in the back row, but it was her front-row play that first caught our attention during the high school season. It was exciting to see her showcase that side of her game once again, delivering powerful, impactful swings and reminding everyone why she’s such a dangerous attacker.

Kate is quick, dynamic, and incredibly consistent—qualities every coach looks for in an outside hitter. She has a natural ability to find ways to score, whether through power, placement, or simply making smart decisions in key moments. What was especially impressive at the showcase was how much her all-around game has evolved. Her focus on developing as a back-row player during club season was evident throughout the event. She provided a steady presence in serve receive, handled pressure well, and played outstanding defense, showing the ability to impact the match even when she wasn’t taking swings.

Kate continues to prove she can contribute in every phase of the game, and her combination of athleticism, consistency, and versatility makes her a player worth watching. We can’t wait to see where her continued development takes her and look forward to following her success moving forward.

Kate’s serve receive is clean, efficient, and incredibly impactful.

She’s one of those passers who makes the hardest skill in the game look effortless — quiet platform, minimal movement, and consistent control. But anyone who truly understands volleyball knows how difficult that level of consistency really is. She absorbs pace, angles her platform with precision, and delivers hittable balls that keep her offense in rhythm.

What stands out just as much as her technical ability is her composure. Kate competes with edge, but never looks rushed. She stays controlled in chaotic moments, making her a stabilizing presence in the back row. When the match tightens up, she doesn’t flinch — she locks in.

Defensively, she’s quick and intentional. She reads well, moves with urgency, and covers her hitters with purpose. She anticipates rather than reacts, which allows her to extend rallies and keep her team in system.

Kate is the definition of consistent and dependable — and that kind of reliability in a defensive specialist is something every coach values.