The 2025 high school volleyball season is underway, and teams across the Greater Savannah area are already making noise. According to MaxPreps records as of August 19, programs in the Georgia High School Association, the Georgia Independent Athletic Association, and the Georgia Association of Private and Parochial Schools are showing early form, with standout performances from returning stars and rising talent. Highlighted by Dennis Knight of the Savannah Morning News in his “Players to Watch” feature, names like Richmond Hill’s Talia Johnson, South Effingham’s Clara Vorel, Savannah Arts’ Maggie Allen, St. Vincent’s Kaylyn Gill, and Habersham’s Myla Shippy are already setting the tone for another exciting season.
Photo: Locked in Calvary Day senior libero Georgia McBride ready to receive vs. Richmond Hill. (Courtesy Calvary Day School Athletics)
The Habersham School (9-3 overall, GAPPS)
The Patriots will rely on three of the area’s top trios: Myla Shippy (299 kills as a freshman) and senior Brownette Olson (307 kills, 208 digs). Junior setter Abbey Zellner (547 assists) helps make Habersham a strong contender for the GAPPS title.
Richmond Hill (9-1 overall, GHSA Region 1-6A)
The Wildcats return after three straight region titles and remain a top contender. Senior Talia Johnson (341 kills, Coastal Carolina commit) leads the way, with senior setter Gracie Duffie (457 assists), senior outside hitter Lily Ritzema (175 kills), and junior middle hitter Kailah King expected to contribute.
St. Vincent’s (5-3 overall, GHSA Class A-3A Private)
The Saints feature a balanced attack with five returning seniors, Kaylyn Gill (383 assists, 231 kills) and libero Sophie Chu (328 digs) anchoring the lineup. Megan Warren, Addison Grayson, and a healthy Briana Tuten round out the attack at the net.
Jenkins (4-2 overall, GHSA Region 3-3A)
The Warriors bring size and energy up front with senior Taylor Young and junior Emily Carter, both of whom were All-Region honorees last season. Together, they anchor a defense-focused roster.
Savannah Arts Academy (4-6 overall, GHSA Class 2A)
The Panthers made a run to the state finals last season. Senior libero Maggie Allen (390 digs) leads the defense, while sophomore Ellie Ayala (219 kills, 309 assists), outside hitter senior Sam Lehto, and middle blocker junior Charlotte Brown add depth and balance.
St. Andrew’s (4-6 overall, GIAA)
Coach Bobbi Mock’s squad is led by sophomore Khloe Jesswein (207 kills, 33 blocks) and junior setter Grace Dare (261 assists). The Lions are expected to compete for the GIAA title.
South Effingham (4-5 overall, GHSA Region 1-5A)
Senior Clara Vorel (244 kills, 60 blocks, Towson commit) leads the Mustangs’ deep roster. Senior libero Iracena Manlove (292 digs), junior setter Leah Magana, and junior hitter Morgan Stringer provide additional balance across positions.
Islands (3-2 overall, GHSA Region 3-3A)
The Sharks are led by senior setter Katie Swezey (493 assists), whose steady play keeps the offense flowing. With her leadership, Islands has a reliable attack that can challenge in region play.
Savannah Christian (3-3 overall, GHSA Class A-3A Private)
Sophomore setter Carinne Cason (413 assists) and senior middle blocker Ella Brooking (126 kills, 57 blocks) return to lead the Raiders, who aim to build on last year’s .500 finish.
Bryan County (3-3 overall, GHSA Class A-D1)
The Redskins bring back a solid group after a .500 campaign. Defense and consistent play will be their focus for 2025.
Effingham County (3-1 overall, GHSA Region 1-5A)
The Rebels are led by junior Jordyn Powell (215 kills) and senior libero Bella Giaquinto (378 serves received). Both are expected to provide steady play following last season’s second-round playoff appearance.
Savannah Country Day (2-3 overall, GHSA Class A-D1)
The Hornets will look to junior Olivia Aliotta (212 kills) and senior setter Boots Buckler (241 assists) for on-court leadership, hoping to rebound in region play.
Calvary Day (2-2 overall, GHSA Region 3-3A)
The Cavaliers return senior outside hitter Kinsey Prado (Region 3-3A Offensive Player of the Year), senior Alaina Moultrie (All-Region first team), and libero Georgia McBride (All-Region first team). With proven experience at the net and on the back line, Calvary looks poised to push for another postseason run.
Bottom Dig: With records updated through MaxPreps (Aug. 19, 2025) and talent highlighted by the Savannah Morning News “Players to Watch”, the Savannah volleyball scene is as strong as ever. Richmond Hill remains the dynasty, Savannah Arts looks to repeat its magical run, and other outstanding teams like Effingham County, Habersham, Jenkins, St. Vincent’s, and South Effingham are ready to make noise.
Photo Credits: Courtsey Calvary Day School Athletics - cavalier_sports on Instagram
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