GAYLORD — The high school volleyball season kicks off in the Gaylord area on Wednesday, Aug. 21. Gaylord High School will open its season at home against Ogemaw Heights. Gaylord St. Mary will travel to Hillman, while JoBurg will host its annual invitational on Friday, Aug. 23.
As the 2024 season begins, several key questions loom: How will Johannesburg-Lewiston perform without Jayden Marlatt and with a new roster? Will Gaylord contend for the conference title this year? How will the young Snowbirds fare after gaining experience last season? Here are the standout athletes to watch:
Addison McDonald, Gaylord
A junior with significant varsity experience, McDonald leads Gaylord High School with 167 career kills and 56 blocks. Her strong presence at the net makes the Blue Devils a tough competitor in the BNC this season.
Aubrey Jones, Gaylord
Returning to volleyball after a break, Jones, a Gatorade Player of the Year and Oklahoma State commit, adds depth to the Gaylord roster. She recorded 55 kills and 35 blocks as a sophomore, and her return will be a boost for head coach Brittney Cornish.
Jayda DePew, Gaylord
A returning starter, DePew is set to surpass 1,000 career assists this season. She has accumulated 708 assists over two seasons on varsity.
Brittney Fox, Johannesburg-Lewisto
With Jayden Marlatt gone, senior Fox will play a crucial role in the JoBurg offense. Last season, she posted 170 kills, 33 aces, 147 serve receptions, and 275 digs.
Lexi Hogle, Johannesburg-Lewiston
In her second year as JoBurg’s starting setter, Hogle earned first-team all-conference honors last season. She contributed 913 assists and 229 digs, helping JoBurg share the SVC title.
Madi Peppin, Johannesburg-Lewiston
JoBurg’s tallest player, Peppin returns as a sophomore after leading the team with 25 blocks as a freshman. She will be key in defending against top opponents.
Kaylee Jeffers, Gaylord St. Mary
As a junior, Jeffers, one of GSM’s top athletes, will be crucial for the Snowbirds this season. With last year’s sophomores now more experienced, Jeffers will help lead the team towards postseason success.
Payton Glasby, Gaylord St. Mary
Glasby’s height advantage will be vital for GSM as they aim to improve in the SVC. Her performance will be critical for the team’s success in tough conference matchups.
