Are you coaching a Varsity player who leads both on and off the court? Someone who lifts up their teammates, sets a positive example, and represents the sport of volleyball with character and integrity at their school and in their community?
If so, MIVCA wants to recognize them!
Use the link below to nominate a Varsity volleyball student-athlete who is making an impact:
Criteria:
- Open to any Varsity-level player in good academic standing
- MIVCA membership required to nominate
- Coaches may only nominate their own players
- Please include a headshot with submission
- Stats not required—this award is not skill-based but recognizes leadership, character, and the impact a player has beyond the game
Grant VanderZee, Holland Christian High School
Grant VanderZee is a 4-year varsity player for the Holland Christian High School volleyball team. He is a standout athlete who not only leads his team with impressive on-court performances but also demonstrates the core values of servant leadership and positivity that are essential both in sports and in life. Grant embodies servant leadership, putting the needs of his teammates first. Whether it’s offering words of encouragement during intense matches or stepping up in practice to mentor younger players, he consistently prioritizes the growth and development of others. His selflessness on and off the court fosters an environment of trust and collaboration, making him an invaluable asset to the team. What sets Grant apart is his unwavering positive attitude. Even in the most challenging moments, he maintains a composed and optimistic demeanor, motivating others to keep pushing forward. His ability to stay calm under pressure and keep the team spirit high is a testament to his mental strength and leadership. Grant reminds us that greatness in volleyball—and in life—goes beyond stats. His commitment to his teammates and his ability to bring light to any situation make him a deserving recipient of MIVCA Player of the Week
Kane Ladner, Ypsilanti Lincoln High School
It is Ypsilanti Lincoln’s first year ever of boys volleyball and Kane Ladner has not let that stop him from learning, growing, and working to be a successful contributor. Kane is a multi-sport athlete and works hard to be at every event he can. He is a hard worker and is quick to make changes in practices and games.He has great ball control and comes in as one of our best serve receivers and leads the team in kills and aces. Kane has shown interest in playing collegiate volleyball and with his drive to do so, we know this is possible. Kane has continued to grow as an athlete, teammate, and individual. We are beyond proud of him and his efforts that have been a part of making history for this 2025 season at Ypsilanti Lincoln High School!
Reagan Lesley, Chippewa Valley High School
Reagan is an exceptional leader in the classroom at Chippewa Valley and at practice on the volleyball court. She always strives to make our program better by holding her teammates accountable
Braiden Janetsky, Swan Valley High School
As a senior and starting setter for our school’s inaugural volleyball team, Braiden Janetsky has not only embraced the challenge of a brand-new program but has emerged as a true leader on and off the court. Known for his calm presence and sharp court awareness, he consistently sets up his teammates for success—both literally and figuratively. In a role that demands quick decision-making and constant communication, Braiden has shown exceptional poise and dedication. His leadership has been instrumental in building team chemistry and setting the foundation for what is sure to be a successful program in the years to come. Whether he's directing plays, encouraging teammates, or staying late to help underclassmen improve their skills, Braiden leads with humility, passion, and purpose. His work ethic, sportsmanship, and trailblazing spirit make him the perfect choice for Athlete of the Week.
Padley Gallagher, Kenowa Hills High School
I would like to recognize Padley Gallagher this week because of the support and guidance she provides beyond just volleyball. She has made an effort to have conversations with me when I was struggling with my mental health, helping me navigate both my personal life and my role on the team. Her ability to support her athletes both on and off the court makes her an incredible coach and mentor. She cares about her athletes beyond volleyball, checking in on them academically, athletically, and mentally. She creates a comfortable environment for her players to discuss anything, whether it's about the sport or personal challenges.
Jerry Sanchez-Vega, Allendale High School
Jerry is a four year varsity player and setter. Jerry has a strong work ethic leading him to earn a starting position on our varsity team. Jerry has worked hard during his four years on the varsity volleyball team. He has shown dedication and love for the sport of volleyball which is evident to his teammates! As Allendale’s starting setter, he has led his team to an 8-1 start in pre-season play.
Cailee Perry, Negaunee High School
Cailee is one of the most selfless student athletes I've ever encountered. She is all about the team, maintains a positive outlook and always looks out for her teammates. Cailee is dedicated to promoting the growth of the game in our area and improving the skills and sportsmanship with our younger athletes. She has been a major contributor and role model within our middle school program and summer youth camps. She is incredibly kind and inclusive with all the athletes she works with. Cailee is absolutely one of a kind and as she will be graduating this spring, we would like to recognize her for the awesome individual that she is. There are truly not enough words to express how great of an individual Cailee is! Our entire volleyball program is better for her being a part of it and this is a small way to thank her for all she does!
Gavin Ring, Sparta High School
Gavin will do anything the team needs and puts himself second. He also shows relentless pursuit of the ball. As a freshman, Gavin led the Varsity team to the State Semifinals last season. He has a quiet leadership and leads by example. He is always a positive and humble athlete giving his best and working hard. He will be a key player on our team this season as a second year starter, 6-rotation player on Varsity as a sophomore. In our first match of the season he hit 10’ line multiple times and led the team in kills. Gavin will take on any role I need him to fill and does it gracefully. He works hard in the classroom and on the court
Driton Cunmulaj, North Farmington High School
Two reasons Driton has been nominated for Player of the Week are that he is a team leader and has a high volleyball IQ. Driton is a 2 year Varsity starting setter. He leads the team and helps develop and motivate younger athletes to become great in the growing sport of boys volleyball. Driton has great court sense when running the offense. He uses the fact that he is a 6’5, left hand setter and can be tricky with the ball leaving his opponents on their heels.
Audrey Phillips, Oakland Christian High School
Audrey is the meeting point of our team. I like to call her the peanut butter and jelly to the sandwich. Her ability to be friends with everyone, including everyone, and be true to herself draws people in. Audrey is a quiet leader on our team here at Oakland Christian. She's the player of our team that the older athletes seek out for advice and encouragement. She's often the first to respond to messages and gather the team. Her dedication to her community through mission trips and leading children groups at her church is impressive to watch while she produces a high GPA and is involved in three sports: Volleyball, Soccer, and Equestrian.
Caleb Cryst - Grand Haven High School
Caleb shows versatility on the court as a setter and right side hitter. He has an explosive attack on the right side and is a very skilled setter. He goes out of his way to keep everybody on the court upbeat, communicating well with the rest of the team and having an uplifting personality. He loves volleyball and plays year round, including beach volleyball.
Ryder Roberts - Hudsonville High School
Ryder has been a leader on the Hudsonville Boys Volleyball team since he was a Sophomore. He has high moral character and puts in the highest level of competition, especially during practice. These traits help him lead by example as well. Not only is Ryder a standout on the volleyball court, earning All-State Honors over the past two years, he also has All-State Awards in Tennis and Bowling.
As we begin the 2024-2025 season Ryder is coming off of back to back State Championships as well as back to back Individual All-State Honors. While his individual honors are impressive, he would never bring that up. He is the ultimate teammate. His work ethic is not to be outmatched, leading by example on and off the court. His on court communication continues to excel leading into his senior year. He makes sure that everyone feels valued and keeps our team focused on our goals. Ryder will be heading to Cornerstone on a volleyball scholarship in the fall. We are looking for more great things from Ryder this season!
