The competition for the coveted title of Miss Volleyball in Michigan is heating up as the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaches Association (MIVCA) has announced its ten finalists for the 2026 award. This annual accolade recognizes the top senior volleyball player in the state, taking into account their individual achievements, contributions to their team's success, and academic performance.
Since its inception in 2003, the Miss Volleyball Award has been sponsored by the Detroit Free Press, highlighting the exceptional talent present in Michigan high school volleyball. The nominees for this year's award showcase a diverse range of skills and accomplishments, reflecting the depth of talent across the state.
The finalists, listed in alphabetical order by last name, include:
Grace Goodyke from Grand Rapids Christian, a 6-foot outside hitter, has made a significant impact on her team with a remarkable career total of 1,291 kills, 339 digs, and a .323 hitting percentage in 2025. Goodyke was instrumental in leading her team to the OK White Conference championship and has earned All-State honors for three consecutive years. With a GPA of 4.1, she plans to continue her education and volleyball career at the University of Dayton.
Mallory Johnson, a 5-foot-6 libero and outside hitter from Byron Center, has been a standout player, racking up 1,513 digs and 351 kills. Johnson's contributions helped her team reach the Division 1 state semifinals in 2025. She has been recognized as a first team All-State player for the past two years and is set to play at the University of Nebraska.
Kate Kalczynski from Farmington Hills Mercy is a 6-foot-2 outside hitter who has garnered national attention for her performance. She played a pivotal role in her team's Division 1 state championships in 2023 and 2025 and has consistently earned All-State honors. Kalczynski, who is ranked as Michigan's top outside hitter, will be taking her talents to Penn State.
Riley Loehfelm, a 6-foot-1 outside hitter from Forest Hills Northern, has achieved 1,004 career kills and was recognized with second team All-State honors last season. Loehfelm's contributions helped her team secure a Division 2 state championship in 2023. She plans to continue her volleyball journey at Villanova University.
Cynthia Ockerman from Brighton is a 6-foot-2 middle blocker who has been ranked among the top players nationally. With multiple All-National Team honors and a strong performance in the KLAA conference, Ockerman is set to play at Clemson University.
Camille Robinson, a 5-foot-10 outside hitter from Battle Creek Harper Creek, has earned recognition on the AVCA Phenom Watch List and contributed to her team's success in reaching the state semifinals. She plans to attend East Tennessee State University.
Marlie Smith from Clarkston, a 5-foot-9 setter, helped her team reach the Division 1 state semifinals in 2023 and will continue her education at the University of North Carolina.
Sophia Smith, a 6-foot-2 opposite hitter from Bloomfield Hills Marian, has played a key role in her team's success, leading them to a Catholic League championship. She will be attending Boston College.
Mallory Wandel from Rockford, a 6-foot-1 outside hitter, has accumulated impressive stats throughout her career, including 1,516 kills. Wandel is a two-time first team All-State honoree and an AVCA All-American, planning to play at Michigan State University.
Mallory Woiteshek, a 6-foot-3 outside hitter from Grand Haven, has also been recognized with All-State honors throughout her high school career. She has led her team to multiple district titles and will join Michigan State University.
The finalists for the 2026 Miss Volleyball Award exemplify the high level of talent and dedication present in Michigan high school volleyball. As the season progresses, these athletes will continue to showcase their skills on the court, vying for this prestigious honor.
Leave a Comment