“I think for me, especially because of everything that has happened over the past few months since last high school season, this means so much. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the work, time, and effort I’ve put in finally paying off, but more than anything, I’m grateful for the people who have been there throughout it all. I’ve found a support system and a community that has pushed me, believed in me, and allowed me to grow into the player and person I am today. Being recognized for something like this is an amazing feeling, but I know I wouldn’t be here without the people who have supported me along the way. From my teammates and coaches to my family, friends, and everyone who has encouraged me through the highs and lows, I genuinely could not be more appreciative. This means more to me than just the recognition itself. It’s a reminder of how much can change when you surround yourself with people who believe in you and continue to put in the work, even when things don’t always go as planned. I’m so grateful for this community and for everyone who has been a part of this journey.”

On what’s clicking: “I am working on passing and it’s still a work in progress.”

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA brings the kind of heat behind the ball that makes opposing blockers flinch. She stays completely behind her swing and uses her entire body, snapping her head through contact to generate max pop on every attack. She competed with a competitive fire that showed up on every single swing she took against Marin Catholic.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Playing a position that you’re not really used to playing is tough, but Barnes made zero excuses and made the most of playing libero as opposed to playing on the left. Barnes’ floor defense and passing were just what Marymount needed to get past a majority of their opponents throughout the weekend. Her passing is what’s going to take her far, especially when she gets to Northwestern.

Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA earned an invite to the 2026 NTDP Summer Training Series (U18-U19) in Hamilton, Ohio, held July 27–30, 2026.

Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA (2027), Outside Hitter from Marymount High School committed to Northwestern, has been named to the 2025 AVCA Girls High School All-Region Team.

Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA – Clutch Outside Who Delivers in Key Moments
Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA , committed outside for Northwestern, played with intensity and delivered when Marymount needed it most. Her late aces in set three tied the game, and she stayed aggressive as both a server and attacker throughout the match. Barnes’ top-spin serve has become a weapon that can swing momentum in an instant, adding another layer to her all-around impact at the next level. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Congratulations Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA , Northwestern University commit, on being named to the All-Tournament Team at the Durango Fall Classic in Nevada.

Makenna Barnes Makenna Barnes 6'3" | OH Marymount | 2027 State #38 Nation CA brought energy and personality to the college camp, using the environment to show who she is beyond just skill execution. I first saw Makenna play in this gym during a previous showcase, and the athlete I saw today wowed me. Her speed, arm swing, and development have been tremendous. She stays engaged, expressive, and competitive, bringing a dynamic presence that adds depth to her game.

For Makenna, the biggest takeaway was getting to know college coaches outside the structure of a tournament. “Being able to see them in a more casual and relaxed atmosphere was eye-opening,” she said. “I really got to see what their coaching styles are and how they interact with the athletes.” The experience helped her realize she thrives in a competitive program built on strong relationships and team energy. Her advice: “Don’t be afraid to speak up. Everyone gets nervous, so be the person who is loud and cheering everyone on. Ask questions and chat with the coaches, get a feel for who you connect with.” ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Miss Barnes has shot up the State Rankings in this update.  She is now currently ranked as the 13^th best overall player according to our Prep Dig California State Rankings.  She plays volleyball for Marymount High School and also plays for the Mizuno Long Beach volleyball club.  If you want a powerful attacker, look no further than Makenna.  This young lady can obliterate the ball with the best of them from any location on the court.  She has always had that power, but this season I have noticed that she is getting off of the ground a lot faster and up in the air a lot higher than years past.  If you are watching her attack, do not blink, because if you do, you will likely not even see the ball come off of her hand.  Her arm swing is that lightning quick.  What gives her even more power is how she crunches her abs at the point of attack.  She is also a very formidable scorer from the pins with how she can tool the block at the last second with a strong swipe if she notices that she has the advantage at the net.  This kind of court vision and awareness is why we have moved her up amongst the state’s best players.  She is the kind of player that you can put on the left side to be a “go-to” hitter or you can also put her on the right side to be a shut down blocker and solid opposite scorer.  Please help us congratulate her on moving up in our prestigious State Rankings.