With summer reaching its midpoint, anticipation builds for another vibrant season of high school sports in Greater Cincinnati. Following a successful 2025 campaign where two Southwest Ohio volleyball teams, Seton and McNicholas, clinched gold trophies, the upcoming season promises to be equally thrilling. From the initial serve in August to the state tournaments in November, the courts are set for remarkable performances. Ahead of the season's commencement, a comprehensive preview from The Enquirer spotlights the top 10 players in each position, beginning with defensive specialists and liberos. Readers are invited to cast their votes for the premier player via a poll available until July 17.
Cincinnati High School Volleyball's Defensive Cornerstones for 2026
The 2026 Greater Cincinnati high school volleyball season is on the horizon, bringing with it a fresh wave of talent and renewed rivalries. Following the exceptional performances of Seton and McNicholas, who both secured state championships in 2025, all eyes are now on the individuals who will define the defensive landscape of the sport. The Enquirer has meticulously curated a list of the top defensive specialists and liberos expected to dominate the courts, showcasing their remarkable skills and leadership.
Among the standout athletes is Grace Frommeyer from Bishop Brossart. As a sophomore, Frommeyer was a defensive powerhouse, ranking among Kentucky's top 20 with an impressive 533 digs, alongside 40 aces and 34 assists. Her return signals Bishop Brossart as a formidable contender for their first 10th Region title since 2022.
Loveland's Ella George, a second-team all-conference selection in 2025, is set to lead her team in pursuit of another Eastern Cincinnati Conference championship. Her sophomore year stats—464 digs, 102 assists, and 45 aces—underscore her potential to be named the conference's defensive player of the year.
At Notre Dame, Dara Jackson emerges as a junior prodigy. Ranked ninth overall and fourth among liberos in Kentucky's class of 2028 by PrepDig, Jackson has already caught the attention of college recruiters. Her contributions of 516 digs, 85 assists, and 47 aces earned her spots on the 35th District, Ninth Region, and state all-tournament teams.
Emme Moser of Fenwick has been a pivotal force behind her team's recent successes, which include a state runner-up finish in 2024 and a regional runner-up in 2025. This University of Toledo commit, a first-team selection for both the Greater Catholic League-Coed and all-district teams, led her league with 532 digs, complementing 65 aces and 60 assists.
Anderson's Karly Otto, a senior and an all-conference second-team honoree, is crucial to the Raptors' ambition for a second ECC title in three years. Her 2025 season saw her accumulate 419 digs, 112 assists, and 19 aces, propelling her team to a district championship.
Kenadi Sieg from St. Henry, an eighth-ranked player in Kentucky's class of 2028 and a University of Cincinnati commit, was a second-team all-state selection in her sophomore year. Her 527 digs, 82 assists, and 24 aces were central to the Crusaders' journey to the Ninth Region runner-up position, earning her the affectionate nickname "Sieg dig!" from commentators.
Ali Strange of McNicholas, committed to Xavier University, energizes her team with her relentless defensive efforts. As a junior, she was recognized on the GCL-Coed, all-district, and All-Ohio first teams for her 389 digs, 100 assists, and 47 aces.
Finally, Scott's Emory Sullivan is prepared to shoulder an increased role after her team's impressive back-to-back state tournament appearances. Leading Scott with 486 digs, 44 aces, and 41 kills in 2025, Sullivan is vital for the Eagles' pursuit of a 10th Region three-peat.
This roster of talented defensive specialists and liberos highlights the depth and competitive spirit of high school volleyball in Greater Cincinnati, promising an engaging season for fans and participants alike.
The upcoming season promises to be a showcase of dedication, teamwork, and individual brilliance in high school volleyball. The spotlight on these exceptional defensive players not only celebrates their past achievements but also underscores the vital role they play in their teams' strategies. Their ability to turn potential scoring opportunities for opponents into offensive setups for their own teams is a testament to their skill and relentless effort. As these athletes prepare to step onto the court, they bring with them the hopes of their schools and communities, inspiring younger players and reinforcing the spirit of sportsmanship and competition. The anticipation for spectacular saves and strategic plays is palpable, ensuring that every match will be a thrilling display of high school athletic prowess.
