2026 volleyball Season Preview
American Conference
Head Coach: Katie Cicione
Players to watch: Aubrey Verdova, Senior, OH/DS– Gigi Goedert, Sophomore, OH/OPP/DS– Kaylie Liepins, Juniors, S
Season outlook: We’re coming off a culture changing 2025 season, and our goals are even bigger this year. You can feel the drive and purpose behind everything we do! This group is passionate about becoming the best they can be for each other, our program, and our community. We’re ready to build on last season’s success, compete for another Suburban League Championship, and add another number to our banner.
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Head Coach: Denise Coreno
Players to watch: Taylor Simmons Junior 14 OH– Liv Springer Junior 12 MH– Ella Nicolli Freshman 15 OH
Season outlook: Mayfield is very excited about joining the league. With being new there will be a learning curve with what each team in the conference has.
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Head Coach: Alanna Ramey
Players to watch: Maddie Milicia #4 DS/L– Lindsay Kish #31 MH– Emily Stupczy, #29, MH– Ali Linderbaum #20 RS/OH
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National Conference
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Head Coach: Laura Merk
Players to watch: Samantha Ross, Sophomore, 7, Outside Hitter– Gigi Shank, Senior, 4, Outside Hitter– Alaina Weingart, Junior, 2, Libero
Season outlook: We are excited to begin the season and move to the National side of the conference. We have several key returning players, but also welcome several new players to the roster. Highland is ready to see how we stack up against a new set of teams this season!
Head Coach: Holly Vertock
Players to watch: Maribeth Slater, 2027, 22, Setter– Gianna Tripp, 2027, 25, OH– Eleanor Kenney, 2030, 20, OH
Season outlook: Hudson has many returning players and added 2 freshman to their roster this year. The dynamic due Maribeth Slater and Gianna Tripp will be a solid force for the explorers.
Head Coach: Jason Schellenberger
Players to watch: Kate Schellenberger (Soph, 11, OH)– Maddison Tucker (Soph, 7, MB)– Lauren Sherman (SR, 10, Setter)
Season outlook: This season brings a mix of steady senior defense group filled with a rising core of young hitters to the court. The team relies on seasoned seniors to anchor or defense and setting. At the same time, a young group of hitters steps up to lead a fast offense.
Head Coach: Brittany Stegmaier
Players to watch: Abby Berte – 2028, 40, Outside– Addison Messick – 2027, 22, Rightside– Ila Flonta – 2027, 8, Setter/Rightside
Season outlook: North Royalton will be small but scrappy. Expect 50/50 balls won and all out effort.
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Head Coach: Allyson Wines
Players to watch: Quinn Macko, JR, Outside Hitter– Averie Shell, JR, Setter– Kam Chapman, SR, Middle blocker
Season outlook: We lost some big pieces from last year, but we are looking forward to proving ourselves within the league. We have a good group of juniors and seniors this year that are ready for all of the challenges that suburban league volleyball presents. Looking forward to competing with the new suburban league national schools in Highland and Medina.