By Chris Parker
Warsaw volleyball continued its ascent last season by improving its win total for fourth consecutive season going 14-15-1 in 2025.
“We have several key returning players this season, and I feel that the overall skill level of our program has continued to rise. This group is determined to focus on the small details that allow the bigger plays to come together,” Warsaw head coach Kelsi Brosnahan said. “We also have a talented group of freshmen entering the program. It has been fun this summer to watch the players push and challenge one another to become better. Their work ethic and competitiveness make me excited to see these young ladies put all of their hard work onto the court this fall.”
Seniors Maylee Slavens (middle blocker), Madyson Reimund (outside hitter), Elizaeth Winters (setter/opposite) and Sara Miller (libero) along with junior Julianne Kilgore (outside hitter/defensive specialist) return.
Slavens had 150 kills last season.
“Maylee is a dynamic two-way player who excels at reading opposing hitters and forming an effective block,” Brosnahan said. “She is also a powerful attacker who will be an important part of our offense.”
Reimund was just behind Slavens with 145 kills.
“Madyson is a consistent offensive threat who brings positive energy, experience, and leadership to the court,” Brosnahan said.
Winters is the leading returner in assists with 250.
“Elizabeth is a versatile player who contributes as both a setter and blocker,” Brosnahan said. “Her ability to fill multiple roles provides the team with valuable depth and consistency.”
Miller led the team with 402 digs and 577 receptions as a junior.
“Sara is quick and instinctive and will continue to anchor our back row,” Brosnahan said. “Her defensive coverage and ability to pick up difficult digs will be important to our success.”
Kilgore put down a team-high 157 kills in her sophomore season.
“Julianne is a versatile player who can contribute in both the front and back rows,” Brosnahan said. “She has continued to grow as an attacker and can make an impact at the net as well as defensively.”
This group will be the strength of the team.
“One of our biggest strengths will be the experience of our varsity roster. We have several seasoned players who understand the expectations of varsity volleyball and know how to compete together,” Brosnahan said. “This group is also willing to try new things and enjoys working through challenges. We have introduced several new concepts this summer, and it has been exciting to watch the players use their grit, communication, and problem-solving skills to make adjustments. Their willingness to learn makes this a very enjoyable group to coach.”
Karley Keele (senior setter), Lilliana Perez (senior defensive specialist), Braylee Cunningham (junior opposite/middle blocker), Bekah Henderson (junior opposite/middle blocker) and Kenyan Beck (sophomore opposite/middle blocker) were identified as newcomers by Brosnahan.
Brosnahan on Keele: “Karley is returning to the program for her senior season after gaining additional experience through club volleyball. She is a strong setter who brings hustle, effort, and competitiveness to the court.”
Brosnahan on Perez: “Lilliana is a strong passer who works well in the back row. Her ball control and defensive abilities will provide additional depth.”
Brosnahan on Cunningham: “Braylee is a strong communicator and a versatile athlete who can contribute in several different roles.”
Brosnahan on Henderson: “Bekah is also a versatile player and strong communicator. Her ability to adjust and play wherever she is needed will be valuable to the team.”
Brosnahan on Beck: “Kenyan received varsity playing time last season and has continued to develop into a strong player at the net. She reads hitters well and has the potential to make a significant impact as both a blocker and attacker.”
Warsaw heads to Warrensburg for a jamboree on Aug. 25 before opening the regular season on Aug. 27 at home against Cole Camp.
“With the number of experienced players returning and the high skill level our younger players have brought into the program, I am very excited about this season,” Brosnahan said. “I expect to see a high level of play throughout the program. Our players are talented, competitive, and willing to work, and I am hopeful that those qualities will lead to a successful season. I believe this will be a fun team for the Warsaw community to watch.”
