09/01/2026
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SPORTS IN KANSAS VOLLEYBALL TEAM TO WATCH: MAIZE SOUTH (5A)
Maize South enters the 2026 season with a loaded returning group after finishing 37-7 and placing third at the 5A state tournament in 2025. Head coach Alexis Head enters her fifth season at Maize South with a 130-34 record and eighth season coaching high school volleyball with a 190-63 career record. During her four seasons at Maize South, the program has won four AVCTL championships, three sub-state titles and finished third in 5A twice.
Maize South welcomes back 10 players from last season. The returning group includes four players who earned All-State recognition in 2025 and several others who gained valuable experience during the team's run to state. Sage Illian, Texas beach volleyball commit, leads the group after earning first-team All-State honors last season. Bella Cook, Iowa State commit, and Autumn Popp, Wichita State commit, were both second-team All-State, while Kendyll Nash earned honorable mention All-State recognition at libero.
Maize South also brings back senior middle blocker Addie Davee, a 6-foot-4 Nebraska-Kearney commit, along with senior opposite Ava Stoughton. Sophomore 6-foot-4 outside hitter Emma Davee and junior defensive specialist Payton Southard are among the other players who could take on important roles for a deep and experienced roster. Senior outside hitter Ava Jakubov and DS Jayla Reed also add varsity experience to the mix.
“Coming off a 3rd place finish last season with a dedicated team of girls that have been rising in the ranks for the past two seasons, we are focused this season on continuing that success. This group is committed to continuing the grind and taking another step forward this season in a big way.”
Maize South is still searching for the first volleyball state championship in school history, but the program has established itself as a consistent contender under Head. With 10 returners, multiple All-State selections and a group that has already experienced success on the state stage, Maize South enters 2026 with an opportunity to contend for another trip to the 5A state tournament.
The Mavericks started the year strong going 5-0 without dropping a set this weekend in the AVCTL Preseason Tournament at McPherson.
