Valley Forge Blends Experienced Core With Young Talent for New Volleyball Season

Valley Forge enters the volleyball season with a promising blend of youth and experience. The Patriots are building around an established group of returning starters while introducing several younger players who could earn important roles as the schedule unfolds. That balance gives the program a clear identity and a foundation for growth.

Delaney Kercher, Carissa Santana, Maira Saylor, Brenna Hill and Lily Fale form the experienced core. Their time in the starting lineup should provide continuity as the Patriots work younger players into the rotation. With five returning starters, Valley Forge has a group familiar with varsity competition and capable of setting expectations in practices and matches.

Several other players will be worth watching as the Patriots shape their lineup. Jocelyn Marflak, Alice Cruz Martinez, Ava Karwowski, Nadia Contiu Irelynn McGlynn are among the candidates to contribute. Their development could determine the team’s depth and give Valley Forge more options over the course of the season.

The schedule includes several notable tests. An Aug. 27 match against Parma Heights will provide an early measuring point, while matchups with Normandy and Garfield also stand out. Those contests should show how effectively the Patriots’ returning players and newcomers can work together against challenging opposition.

Valley Forge’s next listed match is on the road against North Olmsted at 6 p.m. EDT Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026. The Patriots will begin the season focused on turning their experienced core and emerging young talent into a consistent lineup, with each match offering another chance for that group to develop.