By Chris Parker
Greenwood volleyball enters its fourth varsity season looking to take a step forward after back-to-back two-win seasons.
“I believe our biggest strength this year will be our experience and growth,” Azyah Green said. “We have several key returners who now have varsity-level playing time under their belts, and that maturity will show on the court. Along with that, the addition of newcomers who bring energy and talent gives us a more balanced lineup.”
Green is excited to help the program grow.
“I’m so excited to be the head coach at Greenwood and to have the opportunity to lead this program,” Green said. “From the moment I met the girls, I could see how much potential this team has, and I’m really looking forward to watching them grow and develop over the course of the season. My biggest goal this year is to help these athletes build a program they can truly be proud of—one that values hard work, discipline, and teamwork both on and off the court. I want to create an environment where they feel supported, challenged, and motivated to give their best every day. This season is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about laying the foundation for long-term success, building a strong culture, and showing these girls that they are capable of so much when they trust the process and play for each other. I’m confident that with the returning experience we have, the new energy coming in, and the drive this group has already shown, we’ll take big steps forward as a team and as a program.
The key returning players include Elif Benzer (senior middle blocker), Josie Matkowski (junior middle blocker), Isabel Insley (senior outside hitter) and Lena Tarsney (junior outside hitter).
Green on Benzer: “Elif will be a huge presence for us at the net. Her blocking ability and senior leadership will be key in setting the tone for our front row.”
Green on Matkowski: “Josie will also play a major role in the middle. Her blocking ability will make her a tough matchup for opponents, and she continues to develop as an offensive threat.”
Green on Insley: “Isabel is a powerful six-rotation outside who we will rely on heavily. Her consistency in serve receive, defense, and attacking makes her a steady leader on the court.”
Green on Tarsney: “Lena is another strong six-rotation outside who brings both power and versatility. She’s reliable in the back row and adds a lot of energy to our offense.”
Jayla Yanders (freshman setter/right side) and Lauren Sly (junior defensive specialist) will be key newcomers.
Green on Yanders: “Jayla’s setting abilities will be huge for our team, and her versatility as a right-side hitter gives us another strong option offensively. Having her join us at Greenwood is truly a game changer, and we’re excited about the energy and skill she brings as a freshman.”
Green on Sly: “Lauren steps up from JV to lead us in the back row this season. Her consistency, hustle, and defensive instincts will be key in strengthening our serve-receive and overall ball control.”
Green will look for the team to improve its consistency and mental toughness.
“The biggest area we need to improve in order to be successful this year is consistency. Focusing on consistent serve-receive, reducing unforced errors, and staying disciplined in our system will be key,” Green said. “We also want to improve our mental toughness—being able to push through challenges, finish close sets, and maintain confidence when things get tough.”
Greenwood opens the season on Sept. 2 at Galena.
“Beyond wins and losses, our expectation is to continue developing a strong team culture built on hard work, resilience, and playing for each other,” Green said. “If we stay committed to that, the success will follow, and we’ll put ourselves in position to have a much stronger season.”
