Volleyball is truly one of the most exciting sports ever! Whether I’m playing with my friends at the neighborhood park or watching the pros on TV, I’m always on the edge of my seat. The way those athletes leap through the air and spike the ball with such power and precision – it’s like magic! And don’t even get me started on the defense – diving saves and desperate dives are heart-pounding to watch.
While it looks like such a fun game to play, it takes real skill. The teamwork involved in getting the ball over the net is no joke either – everyone has to be on the same page or the point is lost. That’s why it’s always such a tight competition whenever two elite teams face off. The crowds are always super into it too, cheering their favorites on during crucial rallies.
Some incredible lady volleyball stars have made amazing careers out of playing this sport over the years. Through their tireless training and talent, they’ve inspired so many kids like me to pick up volleyball. This new year, I wanted to highlight 15 famous female volleyball players who are among the very best in the world right now. Learning about their paths to success and epic accomplishments, maybe it will motivate me to work even harder toward my volleyball dreams!
Table of Contents
1. Zehra Güneş
Standing tall at 193 cm, Zehra Güneş has always used her height to her advantage as a middle blocker. Ever since she first started playing volleyball as a little girl in Ankara, Turkey, she has dreamed of representing her country on the world’s biggest stages. Through years of dedicated training, the female volleyball player developed rock-solid skills in both attacking at the net and stuffing opposing spikers.
In 2012, Güneş received her first call-up to the senior Turkish national team. It was an emotional moment, realizing a lifelong goal. From there, her international career took off. She competed in numerous European Championships and World Cups, helping Turkey qualify for the Olympic Games in Rio in 2016. Standing on soccer’s biggest stage with her national anthem playing gave Güneş goosebumps.
Known for her fierce competitive spirit, Güneş leaves it all out on the court. Whether unleashing thundering spikes or making acrobatic saves, she plays each point with full passion and intensity. Teammates say her motivating presence in the huddle and ability to lift those around her is what makes her such a standout leader. After over a decade of representing her country, Güneş continues working tirelessly to help the next generation of Turkish female volleyball players chase their dreams. Her accomplishments on the international stage serve as an inspiration.
2. Gabriela Guimaraes
From a young age, Gabriela Guimaraes knew she belonged in the air. Growing up in Rio de Janeiro surrounded by breathtaking beaches and soccer stars, the female volleyball player found her calling soaring high above the net. With explosive vertical leaps and natural ball control, Gabi shined as an outside hitter from her early club days in Brazil.
She made her international debut for the Brazilian senior team in 2008 at just 19 years old. The fiery competitor cemented her role as one of the team’s top scorers. Thanks to Gabi’s powerful and precise attacks from the wing, Brazil established itself as a perennial contender. She helped propel the squad to back-to-back Olympic medals in London and Rio, with the latter on home soil being particularly special.
To this day at age 32, Gabi remains one of the most feared offensive weapons in the game. Her versatility allows her to contribute in other ways beyond scoring too – digging saves, stuff blocks, and serving tricks keep opponents consistently on their toes. Through hard work and natural talent, the Brazilian star has etched out an illustrious career. She continues bringing her infectious energy and knack for decisive plays to both club and country as she aims for more gold. Gabi’s longevity and accomplishments as one of the top female volleyball players serve as an inspiration for the next generation back home and globally.
3. Francesca Piccinini
Francesca is a true volleyball superstar. For over 20 years now, this Italian buddy has shown her amazing skills on courts around the globe. Whether she’s near the net attacking as an outside hitter, or hitting crossed balls from the back as an opposite, Fran’s versatility lets her contribute in so many sneaky ways. Her coaches say she works really hard to improve something new every season too.
Playing for Italy’s national team has been super special to Fran. She’s helped them earn shiny medals like gold at big Euro tournaments before. Plus she got to stand on the podium with silver around her neck after an epic game at the Olympics – can you imagine how happy that made her feel? Although she’s grown into a respected veteran now, Fran still gets real pumped to put on her Italy jersey. Her energy and love for her teammates is infectious. Even younger buddies look up to Fran as a role model who proves consistency and passion can last forever in volleyball.
When she’s not on the court having fun, Fran enjoys being with her family and pals. Most of all though, she’ll always be a volleyball buddy at heart – and fans hope she keeps dazzling them with her magic for many years to come still!
4. Gabrielle Reece
The name Gabrielle Reece is synonymous with athleticism and grace. She was born on January 6, 1970, in La Jolla, California, and raised in the United States Virgin Islands, where her interest in athletics began. Her exceptional talent earned her a scholarship to Florida State University, where she studied communications and dominated the women’s volleyball team. Standing 6’3″, Reece was a force to be reckoned with on the floor, winning the Offensive Player of the Year award twice.
Her abilities were not just recognized on the court. Reece’s remarkable appearance drew the attention of the fashion industry, propelling her to a successful modeling career that included appearances in top magazines such as Elle, Outside, and Women’s Sports and Fitness. Despite her modeling career, Reece never drifted from her first love, volleyball. She competed in the Women’s Beach Volleyball League, and her team won the championship in 1997.
Beyond sports and modeling, Reece has established herself as a sports announcer and novelist. Her book, Big Girl in the Middle, is an honest account of her experiences as a female athlete. Reece also co-hosted FitTV’s Insider Training and set up HIGHX, a high-intensity group exercise program that reflects her commitment to health and wellness.
In her personal life, Reece is married to famed surfer Laird Hamilton and has three children. Despite their celebrity, they live a simple life centered on their mutual love of fitness. Gabrielle Reece’s life narrative is one of tenacity, fortitude, and a never-ending desire to inspire others.
5. Jordan Larson
Jordan is one of the best female volleyball players ever to represent America. This outside hitter hails from Nebraska and her sky-high jumps pack a wallop that always wow the crowds. Whether she’s bopping the ball off the top of the net or unleashing a spike opponents can only watch, Jordan loves putting the ball away with sass. Her coach says her hopes are out of this world!
It’s no surprise then that Jordan has helped lead the USA ladies to winning the coolest prizes. She cheered loudest of all when they got the shiny gold at the big Olympics tournament before. Jordan and her teammates also placed on podiums for other international games, showing their skills are truly world-class.
Even when she’s not piling up accomplishments, Jordan spreads joy to anyone she plays with. Her pals on Team USA say she motivates them to try their best with her energy. Volleyball is way more fun when Jordan’s on your team – just ask her many fans!
This outside hitter from Nebraska has proven she’s among the sport’s greatest ever. But no matter how big she gets, Jordan will always play for the love of the game and to make buds smile too.
6. Jaqueline Carvalho
Jaqueline Maria Pereira de Carvalho Endres was born on December 31, 1983, in Recife, Brazil, and is a well-known volleyball player who has made important contributions to the sport. She started her professional career with Grêmio de Vôlei Osasco in 2002 and moved to Unilever Rio de Janeiro in 2004. Her talent quickly propelled her to Europe in 2006, where she played for Vini Monteschiavo Jesi, Gruppo Murcia 2002, and Scavolini Pesaro. After a successful stay abroad, Carvalho returned to Brazil and joined Camponesa-Minas for the 2014/15 season. She later played for Sesi-SP before returning to Minas in November 2016. Notably, Carvalho was a major player of the Brazilian national squad that won gold medals in the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympics.
7. Sheilla Castro
Sheilla may call sunny Brazil home, but her volleyball talent is loved all over. Playing as an opposite hitter lets this superstar send off-speed shots opposing teams can barely reach.
Whether this best female volleyball player taps the ball into open spaces or whips it across her body for angle winners, Sheilla’s strikes land right where she aims them. Her coaches say watching her clever tips and dinks is like she’s working real magic on the court!
It’s no wonder Brazil’s national team relies on Sheilla so much. Time after time, she’s come through for them in tense situations at huge tournaments. Sheilla’s won piles of gold medals at the exciting Olympics and helped Brazil rule as World Champs too.
More than stats though, Sheilla’s teammates say her calm and kindness is her best trait. Even when matches get tight, she stays cool as a cucumber and lifts up all around her. That’s surely why she’s seen as such a hero to youngsters dreaming of volleyball fame.
Although she’s gained legend status now, Sheilla will always play with a sparkle in her eye. Volleyball is and always will be simply pure joy for this magical opposite hitter from Brazil.
8. Destinee Hooker
Destinee Dante Hooker, an exceptional American indoor volleyball player, was born on September 7, 1987. She was a formidable opposing attacker for the United States women’s national volleyball team, at 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) tall. Her athletic ability was evident early on at the University of Texas, where she excelled in volleyball and track and field.
Hooker was a standout athlete at Southwest High School in San Antonio, Texas, competing in basketball, track and field, and volleyball. She earned all-state honors as an outside hitter during her junior and senior years and claimed the Texas state high jump championship in 2004 and 2005.
Hooker joined the U.S. women’s national volleyball team in January 2008, making her official debut at the 2010 World Grand Prix. Her outstanding performance helped the U.S. team clinch the gold medal, with Hooker averaging 4.76 points and 2.46 digs. She also ranked fifth in scoring at the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship that same year. In 2011, she was named the Most Valuable Player of the FIVB World Grand Prix, where she helped lead the U.S. to another victory, scoring 101 points in the Final Round. Hooker’s impressive stats in the FIVB World Cup, including an average of 5.91 points and 5.13 kills per game, contributed to the U.S. team’s silver medal.
n 2012, Hooker played in the initial matches of the FIVB World Grand Prix, where the U.S. emerged victorious. She capped off the year by winning a silver medal at the Summer Olympics, ranking second in overall scoring, and receiving the Best Spiker award.
9. Maria Borodakova
Maria Borodakova, a middle blocker born on March 8, 1986, adorns Russia’s volleyball grounds with her powerful yet graceful demeanor. She achieved the zenith of her career with the Women’s National Team, earning gold at the FIVB Women’s World Championships in both 2006 and 2010.
Her journey didn’t stop there. Maria shone out in the 2011-12 CEV Champions League, winning bronze and the title of “Best Blocker,” as Dinamo Kazan, her Russian team, defeated MC-Carnaghi Villa Cortese in Italy.
In 2014, she climbed again, helping Dinamo Kazan to the FIVB Club World Championship gold medal, sweeping Brazilian Molico Osasco in a resounding victory.
10. Ciara Michel
Ciara Michel was born in Taunton, Somerset, and she is destined to rise high over the netting of volleyball courts all around the world. Her adventure began in the sun-drenched plains of Miami, Florida, where, at the age of ten, she discovered the game’s rhythm. Palmer Trinity School became her canvas, and with each tremendous blow, she created a volleyball legacy that would live on in the corridors long after she graduated in 2003.
Her name was then called at the University of Miami, where she ascended even higher from 2004 to 2007, achieving records that would last a lifetime. As captain, she led her team with grace and courage, and her presence on the court was a source of optimism.
Her next destination was Australia, where she combined her love of volleyball with a desire to learn, receiving a master’s degree while playing for the University Blues of Victoria. For the past two seasons, she lived in Alemannia Aachen, Germany, as a stepping stone on her route to success.
She represented Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics, leading her team to a victory that will go down in history. Her career proceeded to Hamburg, then to Italy, where she became the first British player to compete in the CEV Champions League, helping her side to silver in 2015.
Turkey’s top division called her next, where she competed for Bursa Büyükşehir Belediyespor, adding yet another chapter to her storied career. Ciara Michel’s tale is one of passion, perseverance, and a love for the game that knows no bounds.
11. Misty May-Treanor
Misty loves volleyball more than anyone! So when she chose to take her talents to the sand courts, it was sure to be epic. And boy was it ever – this American dynamo ruled sides with BFF Kerri for years on end.
Together the super duo seemed almost magic. Fans couldn’t believe their eyes watching Misty claw up any ball that hit the ground, saving points out of nowhere! And Kerri’s sneaky tips over blocks made onlookers gasp in delight.
But what really made these beach besties’ friendship special was helping the USA grab the shiniest golds. At the super duper exciting Olympics, they kept winning the whole tournament over and over – THREE TIMES! No one had ever done that before.
Of course, Misty’s kind spirit and clever game moves made her a true fan favorite too. Young volleyball lovers hoped they could also play with as much passion and smiles as her someday.
Now on the sidelines, it’s clear Misty’s sand memories can never fade. She’ll always be remembered as one of the absolute greatest beach buddies ever – and also the heart that showed volleyball is best when shared with pals like Kerri by her side. The beach courts sure do miss her! Without a doubt, she deserves to be ranked among this list of female volleyball players
12. Samantha Bricio
Sammy sure loves bringing the heat as an outside for Mexico. When she tosses the ball high and sends her floaters flying at the service line, blockers freeze up not knowing where it will touch down! But that’s not all – Sammy’s hits also come down on opponents like thunder. Whether she’s bopping a sharp cross or smacking her signature wicket shot, this rising star constantly keeps teams on their toes.
Thanks to talents like hers, Mexico is winning more medals lately with Sammy leading the pack. Coaches say she’s one of the top servers around today, which boosts their team.
With her dedication and a smile that could power suns, Sammy’s future in volleyball is bright. Fans in Mexico and around the globe can’t wait to see how much better this hardworking outside gets too! No matter what, she’ll always play for the fun of the game and the love of her home country. Viva Sammy!
13. Tijana Bošković
Tijana brings so much wonderful skill to the Serbian team from her opposite spot. When she winds up her mighty hits, balls sail over blockers like rockets! And opponents are in for a surprise when her sneaky tips drop oh so gently on their side too.
But Tijana’s defending prowess is truly out of this world. She times her ambitious jumps to swat balls down with ease. Coaches say it’s like she can see the whole court in slow motion or something!
It’s no wonder this champion has earned so many excellent honors throughout her career. Tijana leads Serbia’s victories in huge tournaments like Euro Champs with pride. She’s certainly achieved more than most ever will in this great sport we all love.
Though legendary status belongs to her now, Tijana’s passion for volleyball shines brightest of all. Whether hugging teammates after close calls or waving to little kids in the stands, her joy is simply contagious. Fans everywhere hope they too can find a buddy as wonderful as this amazing queen of the game!
14. Kerri Walsh Jennings
Kerri loves volleyball so much, that she spread her skills across the beach and indoor courts! Partnered with her dear friend Misty, they dominated sands worldwide while bringing home gleaming gold medals from the giant Olympics – THREE TIMES!
But when not jamming at the seaside, Kerri also made huge plays indoors for USA teams. Her blocking skills were no joke, shutting down attacks left and right like a fortress wall. Coaches praise how she reads opponents like a psychic too.
Now taking on new beach buddy April, Kerri’s champion drive is as strong as ever. She leads with a kindness all friends aspire towards. When not winning, Kerri’s hugs and smiles lift everyone higher.
While individual honors pile high, family and volleyball Ohana means the most to Kerri. Her passion introduced a new generation to the sport’s simple delights. Fans forever cheer for this hero whose gifts keep on giving in whatever form they come!
15. April Ross
April just loves bringing tons of energy to beach courts around the globe! This American smashes attacks with a dynamism that gets fans on their toes. Whether she blasts a cross or tips cunning angles, blockers are always a second too late.
And boy does this California gal’s determination pay off in spades. April’s powered USA to stacks of silvers and gold at the world’s biggest tournaments like the Super Duper Olympics! Her grit and will to win refuse to quit til the final whistle blows.
Coaches say her skills and mind-reading talent make April a force without equal in beach volleyball. But what buddies appreciate most is how she encourages them too while dominating. With a friend like April by your side, any team would feel ready to take on anything!
Even when not collecting prizes, this star brings light and passion to wherever she plays. Beach volleyball is the best with her beaming presence leading the way – now and always into volleyball’s bright future ahead!
16. Zhu Ting
Zhu Ting lights up Chinese volleyball with her huge hitting skills from the outside spot. When she leaps high and slashes the ball towards foes, they scramble just to see where it lands!
But this superstar sees the game like nobody else. She reads blocks before they form and adapts tactics on the fly. Coaches can’t get over how Zhu Ting’s court vision is always two steps ahead.
It’s no secret why this champion volleyballer earns MVP honors year after year. Under Zhu Ting’s guidance, China takes championships at the biggest competitions around. You’ll spot our shining outside on Olympic and world podiums galore!
17. Paola Egonu
This Italian volleyball buddy shines brightest of all from the opposite spot. Whether she cracks booming spikes or conjures tricky tips, Paola’s attacks wow crowds like magic! Coaches love how versatile her playstyle is too. One moment Paola rescues with digs, the next she inspires teammates with cheering. It’s no wonder this rising star earns prizes for outstanding showings.
With explosive force driving each touch, Paola helped lead Italy’s success abroad. Her energy and fun spirit are contagious wherever competitions take her. While skills garner praise aplenty, what fans adore most is Paola’s passion. Volleyball simply means joys untold for this lively opponent. Young lovers of the sport see in her what’s possible when following dreams with smiles like Paola’s. Her future in volleyball is as bright as day!
18. Kim Yeon-koung
This hardworking hitter from Korea shines brightly for her squad all over the globe. Whether pounding lethal spikes or placing perfect tips, Kim never fails to wow people watching. Fans know when Kim goes up for her signature jumps, something amazing will happen. Coaches love her pinpoint aim too – balls land just where she wants time after time.
It’s no wonder critics love talking about Kim’s skills online and in magazines. As crucial outside, she helped Korea succeed in tournaments far and wide. But more than stats, what stands out most is Kim’s diligence.
19. Kim Hill
This super versatile American buddy Kim shines on any volleyball court! Whether pounding sizzling spikes as trusted outside or scooping up balls for friends, she brings her all on every play. But that’s just the start – coaches can’t believe the feats Kim pulls off. One moment she climbs high for tricky tips, then zips to save shots with heart-racing dives. It’s no wonder teams love having reliable Kim in their corner always!
Thanks to her well-rounded skills and positive spirit, Kim helped USA win tournaments worldwide too. Audiences root like crazy seeing her on Olympic courts and beyond time after time cheering her nation proudly on. While accolades mean a lot, what fans cherish most is Kim’s bright outlook. She proves that through hard work and passion, each player can contribute special magic all their own. No doubt young hopefuls will use Kim as inspiration for seasons to come!
20. Kimura Saori
This Japanese volleyball hero Saori flew around courts with such speed and grace, that people still talk about it in awe. As trusted outside, her role meant lightning attacks opponents struggled to see. But don’t let quick play fool you – Saori’s skill and strategy were unbeatable too. She read blocks ahead of time and adapted attacks fluidly, almost like a clever anime protag!
It’s no surprise Japan achieved so much international glory with electric Saori on their side. Audiences roared seeing her receive precious gold at mega tournaments like the colossal Olympics! While individual success piled up, Saori’s biggest joy came from team triumphs. Generations remember how her spirit and joy lifted everyone higher on and off the sand. Even retired, Saori’s kind example inspires newbies to follow volleyball dreams with smiles as bright as hers. She left an impact that will resonate forever!
21. Nellie Spicer
Mary Nelson “Nellie” Spicer, an excellent American indoor volleyball player, stands 5 feet 9 inches and specializes as a setter. She currently plays for the United States women’s national volleyball team, following a great undergraduate career at UCLA. Spicer, born on July 3, 1987, has proved her talent and dedication on both the college and international levels.
What Makes a Good Volleyball Buddy?
All the best volleyball buddies have certain things that help them play well with their team. Some of the most important things great players have are:
Tossing and catching – Being able to smoothly toss the ball to teammates and get under it when they hit it back is super helpful.
Running and jumping – Volleyball takes lots of energy. Good players can run fast, jump high, and not get too tired.
Being strong – You need strong arms to pass hard spikes and big legs to leap high. Working out can build the muscles you need to play well.
Talking to each other – Communicating with cool hand signals or calling “I got it!” lets everyone work as a unit. Clapping for nice plays also cheers up friends.
Moving together – The best teams know where every buddy will be so they can set up plays fluidly. Scanning the area keeps rallies alive.
Never giving up – Tough players never let mistakes bring them down. They stay pumped no matter what and try their hardest until the final whistle.
Adapting fast – Smart teammates can switch up their strategies quickly if something isn’t working. Thinking on your toes tricks opponents!
Leading with kindness – Great captains lead by example with their work ethic and treat everyone on the team like pals.
Having a good attitude – Loving the sport and having fun even when you lose makes you someone folks want on their side.
Practice makes perfect – Sticking with it in the gym over time helps you sharpen all the skills to be the best buddy possible.
With all these good qualities, any player can become a valuable friend their team is lucky to have around. As long as you play with spirit and give it your all, that’s what counts.
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