The 2026 AHSAA volleyball season is upon us, and it promises to be an exciting one, especially with the recent changes to the division system. The split between public and private schools adds a new layer of competition, and the top players in the Single-A Private schools are ready to showcase their skills. This article takes a closer look at some of the standout performers, highlighting their impressive statistics and the recognition they've received.
The Setter Position
The setter is a crucial role in volleyball, and this year's crop of talented players is no exception. Riley Green from Lindsay Lane, a senior, led the way with an impressive 1,020 assists, 299 digs, 54 kills, and 52 aces. Her performance earned her a spot on the AL.com all-state team and the Huntsville all-region team. Sophie Hester, a senior at Bayside, followed closely behind with 916 assists, 27 kills, and 65 aces, earning honorable mentions on the AL.com all-state and Coastal all-region teams.
Kate James, a junior at Mars Hill Bible, showcased her versatility with 1,131 assists, 44 kills, 25 blocks, 136 digs, and 66 aces. Her outstanding performance earned her the AHSAA 2A Setter MVP award and a spot on the Times Daily all-area team. Kylie Murrell, a sophomore at Athens Bible, also stood out with 456 assists, 187 kills, 424 digs, 78 aces, and 29 blocks, earning her a place on the AL.com all-state team and the Decatur Daily all-area honorable mention list.
Outside Hitter/Right Side Excellence
The outside hitter and right side positions are where some of the most dynamic players shine. Vera Aderholt, a sophomore at Athens Bible, had a stellar season with 189 kills, 279 digs, 51 aces, and 22 assists, earning honorable mentions on the AL.com all-state and Decatur Daily all-area teams. Avery Boggs, a junior at the same school, contributed 151 kills, 90 digs, 84 assists, 27 aces, and 17 blocks, further solidifying the team's strength.
Bennett Britt, a senior at Montgomery Academy, dominated with 356 kills, 36 blocks, 259 digs, 14 assists, and 50 aces, earning honorable mentions on the AL.com all-state, AHSVCA all-state, All-area, and All-CCC teams. Kalyn Jones, a senior at Lindsay Lane, had an exceptional season with 654 kills, 102 aces, 27 assists, 333 digs, and 20 blocks, securing her spot on the AL.com all-state and Huntsville all-region teams.
Middle Blockers
The middle blockers play a vital role in controlling the net and providing support. Maren Diefenderfer, a senior at Prattville Christian, had an outstanding season with 491 kills, 59 blocks, 44 digs, and 123 aces, earning multiple accolades, including the AL.com Super all-state, AL.com all-state, AVCA Phenom Watch List, AVCA all-region, AHSVCA all-state, and Montgomery Advertiser all-area team.
Addison Hammontree, a senior at Westbrook Christian, contributed 247 kills and 72 blocks, while Peyton Ingle, a senior at Bayside, had 94 kills and 41 blocks. Morgan Springer, a senior at Montgomery Academy, had 369 kills, 47 blocks, 111 digs, and 87 aces, earning her a spot on the AL.com all-state, All-area, All-CCC, and AHSCVA all-state honorable mention teams.
Libero/Defensive Specialists
The liberos and defensive specialists are the backbone of any strong volleyball team. Emma Kate Frazier, a sophomore at St. Luke's, had an exceptional season with 712 digs, 42 aces, earning her a spot on the AL.com all-state, Coastal all-region, AVCA all-state, all-area, and all-county teams.
Bentlee Pahman, a senior at Donoho, had 681 digs, 67 aces, and 75 assists, earning honorable mentions on the AL.com all-state and All-County teams. Cassidy Kirchner, a junior at Athens Bible, also stood out with her defensive skills.
Conclusion
The 2026 AHSAA volleyball season promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and competition. The top players in the Single-A Private schools have already demonstrated their skills and earned recognition for their outstanding performances. As the season progresses, these players will undoubtedly continue to shine, inspiring their teams and captivating fans across the state.
