High school volleyball is back in MoCo, and the energy is off the charts. Some of the area’s top athletes are coming off electric club seasons, ready to showcase their skills on the high school stage. But with new teammates, new roles, and a mix of rising stars and seasoned vets, the big question remains: will they still dominate, and which squads will rise to make a serious run this fall? With powerhouse talent fresh off club seasons now mixing into high school lineups, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Bethesda-Chevy Chase Barons
Head Coach: Dennis Lopez
2024 Overall Record: 11-5
Notable Returners: Molly McWhorter (OH, Soph.), Claire Tepper (OH, Soph.)
Season Preview: The Barons enter the 2025 season with plenty of talent but are still searching for the right fit to let players shine in their primary positions. Key contributors include outside hitters Molly McWhorter, and Claire Tepper, along with freshman middle blocker Giselle Conley.
Head Coach Dennis Lopez emphasized the importance of finding a setter to run the offense efficiently. “We’re focused on getting our players comfortable on offense while preparing one, or ideally, two setters to take charge,” they said. “Once the setter steps up and develops, our offense will click the way we need it to.” The team hopes to replicate last season’s success while giving younger players opportunities to grow and contribute.
Blair Blazers
Head Coach: Jenna Feinhauer
2024 Overall Record: 11-5
Notable Returners: Kiya Boggan (MH,Jr.), Briana Romero-Fabian (DS/L, Jr.), Toftaa Fedhaa (OH, Jr.)
Season Preview: The Blair Blazers enter the new volleyball season with both momentum and stability on their side. Last fall, they posted a solid 11-5 overall record, laying the groundwork for continued success. Impressively, the team graduated only two seniors from last year’s roster, preserving depth and experience as they forge ahead. With the majority of the roster back, Blair can quickly reestablish on-court chemistry and adapt to new strategies. This consistency, combined with steady leadership, could be the catalyst for another strong season.
Blake Bengals
Head Coach: Rachel Sefton
2024 Overall Record: 4-11
Notable Returners: Fallon Gyapong (Opp., Sr.)
Season Preview: The Blake Bengals are heading into the 2025 season with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising underclassmen, ready to rebuild after graduating six players from last year’s squad. Senior opposite hitter Fallon Gyapong returns as the team’s most notable leader, bringing experience and power to the Bengals’ attack. After a 4–11 finish last fall, Blake is hungry to flip the script, leaning on Gyapong’s presence and the energy of its younger core to find their rhythm. With the right blend of growth and leadership, the Bengals have the tools to surprise opponents and make noise in Montgomery County this season.
Churchill Bulldogs
Head Coach: Cindy Hillard
2024 Overall Record: 13-5
Notable Returners: Charlotte Deraleau (S, Sr.), Lucy Deraleau (OH, Jr.)
Season Preview: The Churchill Bulldogs turned heads last season, finishing with a strong 13-5 record and reaching the state semifinals, where they ultimately fell to eventual champions Richard Montgomery. That postseason run underscored the Bulldogs’ ability to compete at the highest level in Maryland volleyball.
Heading into this year, the team will need to adjust after graduating five seniors, but there’s still plenty of talent and leadership to build on. Senior setter Charlotte Deraleau returns to direct the offense, bringing both experience and composure to the floor. Alongside her, junior outside hitter Lucy Deraleau provides firepower on the attack, giving Churchill a balanced combination of steady leadership and dynamic scoring.
Clarksburg Coyotes
Head Coach: Dawn Dickinson
2024 Overall Record: 9-6
Notable Returners: Mia Cheg, (L, Jr.), Stephanie Matos (S, Sr.), Vivian Ngan (S/OPP, Jr.), Amaya Haynes (MB, Jr.)
Season Preview: The Clarksburg Coyotes enter the season with a strong foundation, returning nine players who bring both experience and versatility to the court. Leading the way are Mia Cheng, Stephanie Matos, Vivian Ngan, and Amaya Haynes. The Coyotes also welcome two talented freshmen, Sophia Figurdo and Ana Spasic, who are expected to make an impact right away.
Head Coach Dawn Dickinson highlighted the team’s flexibility as a key strength: “Our biggest advantage is communication and the fact that most of our players can step into multiple positions. That depth gives us a lot of options and confidence heading into the season.”
With experienced returners, promising newcomers, and a roster built on adaptability, the Coyotes are preparing for a competitive campaign and aiming to make noise in Montgomery County this fall.
Damascus Hornets
Head Coach: Brianna Gordon
2024 Overall Record: 8-7
Notable Returners: Marley Tinney (L, Jr.), Sarah Parker (OH/OPP, S)
Season Preview: The Hornets enter the season with a blend of proven returners and promising young talent, setting the stage for a competitive campaign. Junior libero Marley Tinney, an All-County selection last year, will once again anchor the defense after making an immediate impact as a sophomore. Senior pin hitter Sarah Parker, who transitioned from softball to volleyball, has quickly established herself as a force at the net with her combination of power and leadership. Freshman Amber Hollier also adds versatility and energy, stepping in as an outside hitter with years of club experience and clear potential to be a future leader for the program.
With a balanced mix of skill, leadership, and new firepower, Damascus looks ready to compete at a high level this fall.
Einstein Titans
Head Coach: Alex Ochoa
2024 Overall Record: 5-11
Notable Returners: Pauline Canubas (S, Sr.), Michele Salzman (OH/MH, Sr.), Vivian Calhoun (OH, Jr.), Elaine Dou (OH/OPP, Soph.)
Season Preview: The Titans will be led by senior setter Pauline Canubas, who will run the offense alongside key pin hitters Michele Salzman, Vivian Calhoun, and Elaine Dou once she returns from injury. In the back row, seniors and underclassmen alike bring stability with Ryder Punga, Melany Romero, and Aniya Molake anchoring the defense.
After back-to-back second-round playoff exits, the group is determined to break through this year. A strong mix of returning hitters and a defensive specialist/setter promoted from JV will bring energy and competition in practice. With blocking set as a key area of focus, the team looks to ease pressure on the back row and become more aggressive overall.
“We’d like to push past the second round of the playoffs,” Coach Alex Ochoa said. “We expect our hitters and newcomers to mesh quickly, bring fiery competition to practice, and help us raise our level as a team.”
Gaithersburg Trojans
Head Coach: Marco Molina
2024 Overall Record: 3-12
Notable Returners: Sarah Thompson (S, Jr.), Ashley Akasa (OPP, Jr.)
Season Preview: In just their second year under new leadership, the Gaithersburg Trojans are embracing a rebuilding season centered on growth and fundamentals. With nine seniors graduating last spring, the team now turns to key returners Sarah Thompson and Ashley Akasa to anchor the roster. They’re joined by rising talents from the JV program, including Lyann Cabrera and Elsy Reyes Porta.
While the group may not have extensive club volleyball experience, the focus is on sharpening core skills, competing with energy, and creating a strong foundation for the future. “Our priority is to build a positive environment where players can grow, enjoy the game, and steadily close the gap with more experienced programs,” said Coach Marco Molina, emphasizing the team’s commitment to both development and enjoyment.
Kennedy Cavaliers
Head Coach: Janessa Fauntroy
2024 Overall Record: 5-10
Notable Returners: Nia Rodriguez (L/DS/S, Jr.)
Season Preview: The team is entering 2025 with a focus on growth, guided by a roster full of younger players, including several determined and passionate freshmen. Jr. Libero/Setter Nia Rodriguez said, “Our main goal this season is to strengthen our volleyball skills and improve as a team overall.” Teamwork stands out as a key strength, with strong friendships helping communication and connection on the court. After graduating many experienced seniors last year, this season’s lineup is largely underclassmen, including sophomores stepping into larger roles. One matchup generating excitement is their game against Walter Johnson, which promises both a fun challenge and an opportunity to learn and improve.
Magruder Colonels
Head Coach: Tori Creamer
2024 Overall Record: 11-6
Notable Returners: Chloe Tanseco (S, Jr. ), Sonia Bing (DS, Sr.), Sofia Gonzalez (OH, Sr.)
Season Preview: The Magruder Colonels enter the 2025 season ready to develop a young roster into a competitive force. Returning leaders Sofia Gonzalez, Sonia Bing, and Chloe Tanseco will provide experience and stability as the team integrates ten new varsity players.
“We are young but show a lot of promise,” Coach Tori Creamer said. “We will be strong defensively. We have several solid passers and players who can serve the ball well, and I’m excited to see how this group grows and competes throughout the season.”
With energy, focus, and a commitment to improving each week, Magruder has the potential to surprise opponents and make its mark in 2025.
Northwest Jaguars
Head Coach: Morgan Lowrey
2024 Overall Record: 10-7
Notable Returners: Celeste Mejia Gonzalez (OH/DS, Sr.), Harmony Duverna (MH, Sr.), Feliza Faradonez (OH, Soph.)
Season Preview: The Northwest Jaguars enter 2025 looking to build on a solid 10-7 campaign from last fall. With key leaders returning and younger players ready to step up, the Jaguars are poised to make noise in county play once again.
Senior outside hitter/defensive specialist Celeste Mejia Gonzalez and senior middle hitter Harmony Duverna bring valuable experience and stability, anchoring both the attack and the defense. Alongside them, sophomore outside hitter Feliza Faradonez adds youthful energy and offensive firepower, giving Northwest a balanced mix of veteran presence and emerging talent.
With a strong foundation and clear leadership on the court, the Jaguars will look to translate last season’s lessons into a deeper postseason push this fall.
Northwood Gladiators
Head Coach: Annika Ricci
2024 Overall Record: 0-15
Season Preview: The Northwood Gladiators are ready to flip the script this season. After a tough 0–15 run last year, the team is hungry to prove themselves and bring a new level of energy to the court. With a group of determined returners and fresh talent stepping in, the Gladiators are embracing the underdog role and using it as fuel.
This year is about resilience, grit, and building momentum one match at a time. Expect Northwood to come out with a chip on their shoulder, fighting for every point and pushing opponents to earn every win. The Gladiators may have been overlooked in the past, but they’re ready to bring heart, hustle, and intensity every time they step on the floor.
Paint Branch Panthers
Head Coach: Noelee Wishart
2024 Overall Record: 4-11
Season Preview: The Paint Branch Panthers enter the 2025 season looking to build on last year’s 4–11 record with a renewed focus on growth and consistency. Returning players are ready to step into larger roles, bringing experience and determination to every match.
The team will rely on a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent to strengthen both their offense and defense. With opportunities to improve across the board, the Panthers are motivated to compete hard in each game and make progress throughout the season.
With resilience and teamwork as their foundation, Paint Branch is prepared to challenge opponents and aim for a strong showing this fall.
Poolesville Falcons
Head Coach: Steve Lostoski
2024 Overall Record: 6-10
Notable Returners: Emma Chettupuzha (DS/Sr.), Jaylin Anderson (S, Sr.), Scarlett Hunter (L/Sr.), Megan Elder (MH, Soph.), Caroline Baltazar (L/OH, Jr.)
Season Preview: The Falcons are entering the 2025 season with plenty of excitement. Not just for their roster, but also for the grand opening of their brand-new main gym, set to debut at their first home match against the Rockville Rams on Friday, September 5.
Coach Steve Lostoski shared, “We are excited for the upcoming season, especially for the completion of our new main gym, which should be ready for our first home game on Friday, September 5th. As for our roster, we are excited to return our seniors, Jaylin Anderson (setter), Emma Chettupuzha (DS), and Scarlett Hunter (Libero). In addition, we return 2nd team all-county Sophomore middle hitter Megan Elder, along with honorable mention Junior libero Caroline Baltazar. However, this year Caroline will be moving to outside hitter.”
With that strong mix of veteran leadership and young standouts, Poolesville enters the season eager to compete and make the most of the buzz surrounding their new home court.
Quince Orchard Cougars
Head Coach: Allison Smorse
2024 Overall Record: 8-7
Notable Returners: Eden Tardy (OH, Sr.), Elly VanLandingham(L/DS, Sr.)
Season Preview: The Quince Orchard Cougars enter the 2025 season with experience, depth, and determination to make a deep playoff run. Leading the way are seniors Elly VanLandingham (Libero, UMBC commit) and Eden Tardy (Outside Hitter, University of Mary Washington commit), both four-year varsity players who bring proven leadership and high-level skill. Elly anchors the defense while Eden provides consistent offensive firepower, making them cornerstones of the program.
With most of the roster returning and freshman Lily Steel adding valuable depth, the Cougars are poised for another strong campaign. Off the court, partnerships with 480 Club and Lead ‘Em Up have helped strengthen mental toughness and leadership—key factors in raising the program’s ceiling.
Head Coach Allison Smorse is confident in her squad: “The players and coaches have big goals for this group. The team has a lot of potential and as a whole are expecting ourselves to succeed.”
Seniors Elly VanLandingham and Molly Rodriguez are embracing their leadership roles, setting high standards for consistency and focus. “Our biggest goal is to win regionals,” Elly said. “BCC and Churchill are going to be tough, but we’re ready.” Molly added, “As seniors, it’s about setting the tone. We want to practice the way we play—focused and disciplined—so we’re ready for those big matches.”
With veteran leadership, team depth, and seniors determined to finish on a high note, the Cougars are motivated, battle-tested, and ready to chase a regional championship this fall.
Richard Montgomery Rockets
Head Coach: Gretchen Barber-Strunk
2024 Overall Record: 19-0 Class 4A State Champions
Notable Returners: Ellie Mitchell (OH, Sr.), Katie Mitchell (OH, Soph), Ana Djordjevic (L/DS, Jr.), Saesha Dhote (OH, Jr.)
Season Preview: The Richard Montgomery Rockets enter the 2025 season as the reigning state champions, bringing confidence, experience, and plenty of talent back to the court. Despite graduating seven seniors, RM returns a strong core of Ellie Mitchell, Katie Mitchell, Ana Djordjevic, and Saesha Dhote who will anchor the lineup.
Head Coach Gretchen Barber-Strunk knows expectations will be high. “We have a lot of strong returners despite losing seven seniors last year. Our focus is on connecting as a new team, finding those big leadership voices, and bringing all the little pieces together to make the big picture clear.”
This year also marks the start of a two-year schedule rotation, which will test the Rockets with some tough matchups. Rather than dwelling on the target on their backs, the team is focused on preparation, both mentally and physically, for the challenges ahead.
With an influx of talent from tryouts and the drive to defend their title, the Rockets are putting in the work to continue their championship tradition.
Rockville Rams
Head Coach: Miguel Roa
2024 Overall Record: 3-12
Notable Returners: Maddie Pankowski (L, Sr.)
Season Preview: The Rams, who finished 3-12 last season, enter 2025 focused on building a well-rounded team and fostering a strong, positive culture within the program. With seven returning players and seven newcomers, including two energetic freshmen, the team aims to improve individual and team skills while enjoying their time on the court. Coach Miguel Roa said, “Our focus is on improving individual and team skills, enjoying our time on the court, and creating a memorable season—especially for our three graduating seniors.”
Seneca Valley Screaming Eagles
Head Coach: Jasmine Soriano
2024 Overall Record: 2-13
Season Preview: After finishing 2-13 last season, the Screaming Eagles are ready to take flight in 2025. Under the leadership of Coach Jasmine Soriano, the team is focused on developing skills and building strong team chemistry. With a mix of returning players and new faces, the Eagles are eager to compete and grow together. The program is committed to creating a positive, memorable season for every player on the court.
Sherwood Warriors
Head Coach: Kaitlyn Jain
2024 Overall Record: 10-6
Notable Returners: Ariel Callwood (S, Soph), Kenley Jacobs (OH, Jr.)
Season Preview: After a 10-6 season in 2024, Sherwood’s varsity volleyball team is young but full of potential and looking forward to a fun season. The Warriors return sophomore setter Ariel Callwood, fresh off a National Championship win this summer with Metro Travel. She will be helped by a strong junior class, led by Kenley Jacobs. “We’re young, but with tenacious defense and strong serving, we should have a great season,” said Coach Kaitlyn Jain.
Springbrook Blue Devils
Head Coach: Sherryta Campbell
2024 Overall Record: 10-6
Notable Returners: Roxanne Okeke (MB, Sr.), Nicole Salomon (L, Sr.), Jennifer Beristain Lagunas (OH, Soph.)
Season Preview: The Springbrook Blue Devils are charging into the 2025 season with fresh energy and big ambitions. After graduating 11 seniors, this year marks a new era of growth and opportunity, but the team is ready to rise to the challenge. Senior middle blocker Roxanne Okeke will dominate the net, bringing leadership and consistency on both offense and defense. Alongside her, senior captain and libero Nicole Salomon anchors the back row with relentless hustle and quick reads. Sophomore outside hitter Jennifer Beristain Lagunas, already a proven playmaker, is set to take her game to the next level and spark momentum on the court. “This season is all about growth and building a new team identity,” Coach Sherryta Campbell shared. “With Roxanne and Nicole leading the charge, and Jennifer stepping up as a young impact player, we’re excited for what’s ahead. Even with so many new faces, we believe this group has the energy, talent, and fight to surprise people and keep Springbrook volleyball competing at a high level.”
Watkins Mill Wolverines
Head Coach: Jessica Salomon
2024 Overall Record: 7-9
Notable Returners: Billie Faye, (MH/OPP, Sr.), Sofia Rodriguez (L/DS, Sr.)
Season Preview: This year’s squad is full of underclassmen talent, featuring four freshmen and three sophomores. With such a young roster, the focus will be on building skills and chemistry, but the team is excited for the growth and energy this season will bring.
Walter Johnson Wildcats
Head Coach: Sara Williams
2024 Overall Record: 13-3
Notable Returners: Celiana Caraballo De Jesus (L, Sr.), Emilia Zhang (OH, Jr.), Ellie Silberfeld (S, Soph.)
Season Preview: The Walter Johnson Wildcats enter the 2025 season with fresh leadership, high energy, and a clear mission: to compete for a county championship. After graduating five seniors and with the retirement of longtime coach Jackie Krampf, this year marks a new era under first-year head coach Sara Williams and assistant coach Liam Morris, a 2017 WJ Player of the Year.
Senior libero Celiana Caraballo De Jesus, a three-year varsity veteran, will once again run the defense with her relentless hustle and consistency. A 93% server and one of the hardest workers Coach Williams has ever coached, Celiana sets the tone for the Wildcats’ back row. In her third varsity season, junior outside hitter Emilia Zhang brings power, energy, and—true to her teammates’ words—“a vibe” on the court, as she takes on the leadership role at OH1. Sophomore setter Ellie Silberfeld, in her second varsity year, will be the creative force driving WJ’s offense, using her volleyball IQ and athleticism to fuel the attack.
“With their talent and their ability to do hard things, I think we are going to surprise some teams this year,” Coach Williams said.
Wheaton Knights
Head Coach: Brian Schamaun
2024 Overall Record: 4-12
Season Preview: The Wheaton Knights are determined to turn the page in 2025 and build on the foundation laid last season. After finishing 4–12 in 2024, the Knights enter the new year focused on growth, consistency, and competing with confidence against every opponent on their schedule. With returning experience and a core of young players eager to step up, Wheaton looks to strengthen its defense and sharpen its offensive rhythm to stay competitive in the county race.
Whitman Vikings
Head Coach: Andria Warner
2024 Overall Record: 10-6
Notable Returners: Raegan Lentz (OH/MH, Sr.), Eliza Lowe (MB, Sr.)
Season Preview: The Whitman Vikings head into the 2025 season looking to build on last year’s strong 10–6 record and remain a contender in Montgomery County. With depth at the hitting positions and a mix of seasoned leaders and rising talent, the Vikings bring both experience and firepower to the court.
Senior middle hitter/pin hitter Raegan Lentz, who has committed to Amherst College, will anchor the front row with her versatility and leadership. She’ll be joined by senior middle blocker Eliza Lowe, a Middlebury College commit, who brings consistency and presence at the net. Adding to the offense is freshman middle hitter Caroline Conroy, who contributes athleticism and energy to the lineup as she makes her varsity debut. With a deep group of attackers ready to step up, the Vikings’ offense has the tools to keep opponents on their heels.
The Vikings’ combination of veteran leadership and promising young players positions them to make another strong run this fall, with eyes on pushing deeper into the postseason.
Wootton Patriots
Head Coach: Mary Malinauskas
2024 Overall Record: 16-4
Notable Returners: Haile Ma (OH, Jr.), Taryn Su (S, Sr.),
Season Preview: With rosters just finalized, the Patriots are still coming together, but returning experience gives them a solid core. Despite graduating three starters, their depth at setter stands out and will fuel a fast, versatile offense. Expect plenty of creativity in the attack and a lineup capable of keeping opponents on their heels all season.
With the first matches set for Friday, September 5, 2025, Richard Montgomery remains the team to beat, but challengers like Churchill, Quince Orchard, and Blair are ready to make their presence felt. Several programs are quietly focused on development, chemistry, and resilience, setting the stage for potential surprises in the county rankings. With competitive matchups ahead and a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent ready to shine,volleyball fans are in for thrilling games and standout performances. Stay tuned to The MoCo Show for match recaps, player highlights, and coverage throughout the season.
