Hometown Heroes: Connecticut and Massachusetts Athletes Leading the Way

Connecticut and Massachusetts are home to talented groups of volleyball players making their mark on the court. From established standouts to rising prospects, these athletes are helping showcase the talent throughout New England. This edition of Hometown Heroes highlights the players bringing energy, dedication, and a competitive edge to their teams.

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Class of 2027 

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Mavi Triantafyllos: Green level setter- Northeast Volleyball Club 

Mavi Triantafyllos has made a lasting impact as a setter for King School, helping lead the program to both FAA and Class A NEPSAC championships every year of her high school career. She recently reached an impressive milestone of 2,000 career assists, highlighting her consistency and leadership on the court. Her accomplishments have also earned her a spot on the 2026 AVCA All-America Watchlist. Triantafyllos will continue her volleyball career at Springfield College, where she will bring her experience and playmaking ability to the next level.

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Caroline Curry: Green level libero/DS- Northeast Volleyball Club 

Caroline Curry has been a key contributor to King School’s varsity volleyball program, which has built a strong tradition of winning throughout her high school career. As a libero and defensive specialist for Northeast Volleyball Club, she brings quick footwork and strong court awareness to the back row. Her high volleyball IQ allows her to read plays effectively and make smart defensive decisions. Curry is committed to continuing her volleyball career at UConn, where she will bring her defensive skills and experience to the next level.

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Sasha Selivan: Orange level setter- Boston United

Sasha Selivan has established herself as an accomplished setter, earning recognition for her ability to lead an offense and make smart decisions on the court. She was named Gatorade Player of the Year for two consecutive seasons, 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, highlighting her sustained success. Selivan has also participated in the USAV NTDP Beach program, showcasing her experience beyond indoor volleyball. Committed to Colgate University, she will bring her well-rounded skill set and strong court awareness to the next level.

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Class of 2028

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Maria Paes: Green level libero/DS- Boston United 17-1

Maria Paes has been a consistent presence in the back row at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School, earning a varsity starting role throughout her high school career. She has also made her mark in club volleyball with Boston United 17-1, using her defensive skills to contribute to her team's success. Her talent has earned her NERVA U15 All-Star Team honors in both 2024 and 2025, as well as spots on the 2026 JVA and AVCA Watchlists. Paes has continued to explore her college opportunities at camps hosted by Harvard, Villanova, Yale, and other programs.

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Isabella Koehler Batista: Blue level MB/OH- Lionheart 17-1

Isabella Koehler Batista is building momentum during her junior season at Acton-Boxborough Regional High School, bringing a steady presence to the front row. At 5’10”, she offers versatility in the front row and has shown she can contribute in multiple ways. Playing for Lionheart 17-1, she continues to develop her game against competitive club-level talent. Her reliability at the net and well-rounded skill set make her a player to keep an eye on as the season progresses.

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Alexandra Okumura: setter- Husky Volleyball Club 17 Northeast Red 

Alexandra Okumura brings plenty of energy to the setter position, helping create a competitive and upbeat atmosphere whenever she steps on the court. Her efforts earned her All-NEPSAC and All Founders honors in 2025, recognizing her impact at the high school level. Okumura has also attended the UA NEXT Camp and continued exploring her college options through camps at Princeton, Yale, and UConn. With her ability to connect with teammates and keep the offense moving, she has continued to build her experience as a setter.

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Class of 2029

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Olivia Romaniello: Blue level libero/DS- Nova 17-1

Olivia Romaniello is gaining valuable experience with Nova 17-1, competing against older athletes while playing up at the club level. As a libero and defensive specialist, she has continued to put in extra work outside of team practices, showing a commitment to improving her game. She has also taken advantage of college camps and clinics at Marist University and Sacred Heart University to continue developing her skills. With her work ethic and willingness to challenge herself, Romaniello has plenty of room to grow and a promising future ahead.

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Margot Weibley: Green level libero/DS- Lionheart 16-1 Premier 

Margot Weibley has been expanding her game both indoors and on the sand, gaining valuable experience as a libero and defensive specialist with Lionheart 16-1 Premier. She competed at a high level in beach volleyball this summer, adding another dimension to her overall game. Weibley has also made the most of opportunities to learn from different programs, attending numerous clinics, showcases, and college camps. With stops at Virginia, Duke, Vanderbilt, and other schools, she continues to seek out new ways to challenge herself and grow as a player.

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Class of 2030

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Konstantia Amanatides: Orange level libero/DS- GVC 14-1

Konstantia Amanatides has already made her presence felt as a young defensive standout, earning a spot on the King School varsity team as a freshman. With GVC 14-1, she brings an aggressive mindset to the libero position and stays ready to make a play whenever the ball comes her way. Her efforts have earned her recognition on the 2026 NERVA U17 All-Star Team and the 2026 AVCA Phenom Watchlist. Amanatides’ anticipation and relentless approach to defense make her an exciting prospect to follow as she continues developing her game.

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Kiki Wright: Elite Orange level OH- SMASH VBC 18-1

Kiki Wright has taken on the challenge of competing against older players with SMASH VBC 18-1, showing a level of maturity and composure that stands out for her age. At 6’0”, she brings a strong presence to the outside hitter position and continues to test herself against high-level competition. Wright’s experience includes the USAV NTDP U15 program and two UA NEXT Middle School MVP honors, reflecting her ability to make an impact on the court. She has also attended camps at major programs such as Penn State, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Vanderbilt, gaining exposure while continuing to sharpen her skills.

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Class of 2031

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Cora Jones: Green level OH- Lionheart 15-1

Cora Jones brings an exciting combination of speed and power to the outside hitter position with Lionheart 15-1. At 6’0”, she has the physical presence to make an impact at the net, pairing her height with a fast, powerful swing. Her performance has earned her a place on the 2026 NERVA U15 All-Star Team, adding to her growing experience in competitive volleyball. Jones has also attended a variety of camps and clinics to continue refining her skills and gaining valuable experience.