Syriana Messy Syriana Messy 5'10" | RS Mater Dei | 2027 CA sets the tone before the whistle. She is a 5’11” senior pin hitter at Mater Dei who plays club with SC Rockstar ‘s 18 Mykah team, and she speaks four languages. Sierra Canyon’s Hanna McGinest Hanna McGinest 6'1" | OH Sierra Canyon | 2027 State #58 Nation CA plays at the same club, so Saturday puts two club teammates on opposite sides of the net.

She was on the 2025 roster without a stat line, so this is her first chance to define herself in this matchup. In September she told me she was working on hitting consistency and shot selection, with extra reps to sharpen her timing. Teammates know her for energy and dependability, and she was aiming for Division 1 and fielding real interest.

Here is what she told me this week:

“These matchups are always competitive, and they’re something I’ve gotten used to and looked forward to ever since I got to Mater Dei! As a leader, I try to set the tone by bringing energy every day, challenging my teammates in practice, and making sure we stay locked in and start on time and focused heading into every game, especially against a team like Sierra Canyon. We know the talent SC can bring, but we believe in ourselves and the work we’ve put in to get to this point as a team. We’re excited to still be competing this late in the season. We’ve had an amazing year, and with only a few games left, this is the time you want to be playing your best volleyball. This is a great challenge, and we’re looking forward to it.”

She names three habits: daily energy, challenging teammates in practice, and starting every game on time and focused. That is what a leader sounds like when her job is not on the stat sheet.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Syriana is heading into Durango focused on the climb. “I’m most looking forward to competing with my team, getting better, and seeing how far we can go together. I’m excited to challenge myself and prove how much I’ve grown as a player,” she said.

Her game is anchored in what she brings before the ball even comes to her. She’s known for her energy and for being someone her teammates can always count on, always encouraging, always bringing presence to the court even when things aren’t going the team’s way. Right now she’s locked in on becoming more consistent with her hitting and shot selection, putting in extra reps and sharpening her timing so the decisions come faster in games.

Watch her closely and the stat sheet won’t tell the full story. Her communication and leadership are constant, the kind of presence that keeps a team together when the momentum shifts.

She’s aiming for Division 1 volleyball, and she’s already deep into the process, building her list, talking with coaches, and fielding real interest along the way.

Outside the gym, she’s fluent in four languages.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Syriana Messy Syriana Messy 5'10" | RS Mater Dei | 2027 CA , an opposite from MVVC and Saint Francis High School, saw the Championship Performance Advantage All Star Event as a powerful motivator. Competing alongside top athletes pushed her to raise her level and inspired her to keep growing. Working with Coach Chris Austin has helped her develop different parts of her game, with concepts she applies regularly in club practices and matches. His guidance has challenged her to embrace new approaches, even when they feel uncomfortable, knowing that growth often comes from stepping outside of her comfort zone.

Syriana hopes college coaches recognize her versatility and reliability as an athlete. She plays with a fierce, competitive spirit and brings a steady presence to her team through her next-play mentality. Off the court, she leads with care and compassion, aiming to make a positive impact on others through her faith and actions. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Syriana Messy Syriana Messy 5'10" | RS Mater Dei | 2027 CA is a force to be reckoned with on the court, bringing a combination of power, precision, and leadership that makes her a standout player. Her aggressive style of play is evident in every aspect of her game, from her dominant presence at the net to her commanding serve that puts pressure on opponents.

As a blocker, Syriana is a game-changer. Her strong hands and disciplined technique allow her to read hitters effectively and shut down attacks with well-timed blocks. Her defensive instincts, paired with her quick reaction time, make her a reliable presence in both solo and team blocking situations.

Offensively, Syriana is just as impactful. Her longer approach generates explosive power, enabling her to put the ball away with authority. Whether attacking from the front row or finding smart angles to score, she has the ability to finish plays in high-pressure moments. Her court awareness allows her to adjust her shots, keeping defenders off balance and maximizing scoring opportunities.

Beyond her physical abilities, Syriana’s communication skills and leadership help keep her team organized and in sync. She directs traffic on the court, ensuring that everyone is in position and ready for the next play. Her competitive spirit and vocal presence make her not only a strong player but also an inspiring teammate who lifts the energy of those around her. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247