2026 May LOVB Athletes of the Month Presented by YETI

Each month, junior volleyball teams nationwide nominate players for the LOVB Athlete of the Month, where one LOVB Pro is also nominated and selected by fellow teammates and staff. These athletes are chosen based on our monthly Whole Athlete Training theme.

May’s theme, “Let It Rip,” focused on building the confidence to trust preparation, play freely, and compete without hesitation. Athletes explored the impact of self-talk and how their inner voice can influence mindset, effort, and performance both on and off the court.

Throughout the month, athletes worked on leaning into their strengths, taking risks confidently, and staying focused on what they can control rather than the opinions of others. By recognizing and overcoming FOPO (Fear of Other People’s Opinions) players learned how to compete with greater freedom, resilience, and belief in themselves.

Congratulations to the May Athletes of the Month, presented by YETI. Read through their club nominations and see them in action on @lovbclubs on Instagram and TikTok.

Alexis Rushton - Club V
Nominated by Allison - Club Director 

Alexis is the hardest worker in any gym and on any court. A fierce outside hitter with a relentless ability to “let it rip” and swing at any ball. She can make any play out of the craziest out of system balls, often stunning opposing teams with the balls she is willing to take full aggressive swings at. Alexis always “swings to win”. As the captain of her team, she uses this same mentality to lead and encourage her teammates to do the same . To play fearless, passionate and always be willing to let it rip! 

Allison Stout - Houston Skyline The Woodlands
Nominated by Kristi Crawford - Ignite Director & 12 Royal Head Coach

Allison consistently demonstrates the confidence, mindset, and determination that this award represents. For being only 12 years old, she has an incredibly high volleyball IQ and a true eagerness to learn the game. She is constantly asking questions, wanting to understand new aspects of volleyball, and looking for ways to improve herself and help the team.

What stands out most about Allison is the way she competes. She goes all-in on every play, every rep, and every opportunity she gets on the court. She wants the ball when the pressure is high and when the match is on the line, which says a lot about her confidence and trust in herself.

Allison also does an excellent job of coaching herself mentally. Even when she struggles or makes mistakes, she stays positive, uses strong self-talk, and quickly refocuses so she can move forward and help her team. Her positivity toward both herself and her teammates creates a strong, encouraging environment around her.

Allison truly embodies what it means to “Let it Rip!” by competing fearlessly, staying mentally strong, and giving full effort in every moment.

Catherine Tweardy - Lexington United
Nominated by Jenni Morgan - Club Director 

Cat has really grown this season. It’s one thing to have talent, but Cat has mastered the art of the 'inner coach.' She has developed the rare ability to anchor herself with strong, positive thoughts, allowing her to stay focused and go all-in even when the game gets tight. That mental discipline has unlocked a new level of play where she finally feels free to 'let it rip.' Seeing her pair that relentless work ethic with a fearless, 'go-for-it' confidence has been a game-changer for our team. She isn't just playing the game; she’s commanding her place in it. 

Emerson Knowles - East Coast Volleyball Club
Nominated by Rowan Ennis - Coach

Emerson started the season with the goal to be mentally tougher as she believed that was what was holding her back from elevating to the next level. Through the season, she settled in to the 6 ro. OH role and we worked on building her composure and talking herself through those big pressure moments. I've watched her develop that mental toughness and she is now reaping the rewards and truly 'letting it rip' She has become such a fun player to watch- and she only digs in deeper when the games get tighter. 

Kate Laird - Iowa Impact Volleyball Club
Nominated by Jenna Britt - Coach

I would like to nominate Kate Laird for Athlete of the Month because she truly embodies the “Let it Rip!” mindset. Kate consistently rises to challenges and comes alive in tough moments, never backing down when the pressure is on. She trusts herself, competes fearlessly, and gives full effort no matter the situation.

What stands out most about Kate is her leadership. She leads her team not only through her actions on the court, but also through her guidance, positivity, and energy. When things get difficult, Kate is the athlete encouraging teammates, staying composed, and helping others stay confident and focused.

Kate’s ability to coach herself through adversity with strong, positive thoughts allows her to stay all-in and perform at her best in big moments. She brings a contagious competitive spirit and resilience that elevates everyone around her, making her extremely deserving of this recognition.

Katie Downey - PO1NT Volleyball Club
Nominated by Joe Reynolds - Po1nt VBC Assistant Director

Katie always has a positive attitude on the court and on the bench. Always willing to be coached and to make a change. She plays fearlessly and is always quick to hype her team up, bringing them up when they're down and pushing them even further when things are going well. Even during the roughest of practices or matches, she stays consistent with her effort and her attitude!

Maeve Cameron - ATHENAVB
Nominated by Kealia Nahale-a - Events Director & 14 Gold Coach 

Maeve is one of the most selfless, hardworking, and genuine athletes I have had the privilege of coaching. While she is incredibly talented on the volleyball court, what stands out even more is the kind of person she is off of it. Maeve consistently gives everything she has every time she steps onto the court, leading with confidence, positivity, and determination. She knows how to coach herself through difficult moments with strong, focused thinking and never lets adversity change the effort she gives to her team. Whether it’s practice or game time, Maeve plays with heart, leads by example, and embodies what it means to go all-in for both her teammates and herself.

Magnolia Williamson - Reign Volleyball Club
Nominated by Isabela Da Silva - Head of Coaching 

I wanted to share a quick update and some well-deserved praise for one of our players, Magnolia (Maggie).

When we recently lost our main setter, Maggie didn't just fill a gap—she completely stepped up to the plate. Because of her intense work ethic and commitment to the team, we are now capable of running a 5-1 offense.

Setting is often a thankless job; it’s a position where you choose to provide for your hitters rather than take the glory for yourself. Maggie has put her heart into making the game more enjoyable for our hitters, and her leadership has been evident from the moment she stepped onto the court.

Coach Bela and Coach Rosie are incredibly proud of the player and person she is becoming. We can’t wait to continue supporting her journey both on and off the court.

Paige Kemper - Houston Skyline The Woodlands
Nominated by Kristi Crawford - Ignite Director & 12 Royal Head Coach

Throughout the season, Paige has consistently stepped outside of her comfort zone and embraced whatever role the team has needed from her. Due to injuries, she has had to move into different positions and responsibilities, and each time she has responded with confidence, effort, and a positive attitude.

What stands out most about Paige is her willingness to go all-in for the team. No matter where she is placed on the court, she competes hard, trusts herself, and gives full effort every single time she plays. She has become someone the team depends on in important moments because of her versatility, determination, and team-first mindset.

Paige also brings positive energy to the group and handles challenges with maturity and resilience. Even when situations are difficult or unfamiliar, she stays focused, encourages others, and continues working to improve. Her attitude and willingness to embrace challenges have had a direct impact on our team’s success this season.

Paige truly represents what it means to “Let it Rip!” by trusting herself, stepping up for her teammates, and competing with confidence no matter the circumstances.