2024 Lenoir Community College Volleyball
Photos provided by Lenoir Community College
Head Coach: David Barnes
The Lenoir Community College Volleyball team, led by seasoned head coach David Barnes, enters the 2024 season with a determined and dynamic roster. Barnes, whose impressive coaching career spans multiple schools—including NCAA Division II Presbyterian College and Arendell Parrott Academy, where he captured two state championships—has built a program known for its scrappiness, positive attitude, and strong work ethic. Last season, LCC finished with a 13-12 record and advanced to the second round of the playoffs before falling to the #2 seed, Cape Fear Community College.
Coaching Staff
Assistant Coaches: Charlie Cotton, Jorja Tuten, Hady Ammar, Mo Grigsby
Coach Barnes' Vision
"We're scrappy, hard-working, and full of kids who love volleyball," says Barnes. "We may be small in some areas, but we’re athletic and have great ball control as a unit. I expect this season to be well above .500." After the significant improvement last year, Barnes anticipates even greater strides this year as the team builds on their postseason experience.
#8 Hayli Verma - 5’10", Sophomore, Outside Hitter, Wayne Christian School (Goldsboro, NC)
Hayli Verma returns as one of LCC’s most experienced players, anchoring the team as a full-rotation outside hitter. Having developed her skills at Wayne Christian and playing club volleyball with Carolina Performance Club, Verma’s offseason dedication has significantly sharpened her game. "Hayli didn’t come off the court last year, and we expect big things from her," says Barnes. Verma’s ability to cover the court both offensively and defensively makes her one of the key players for LCC’s success this season.
#7 Mikalah Dale - 5’6", Sophomore, Outside Hitter/Libero, Princeton High School (Princeton, NC)
Mikalah Dale brings versatility and experience into her second season at LCC. Originally trained as a middle hitter, Dale’s adaptability saw her fill multiple roles for the team last year. Her transition to outside hitter has proven successful, though she’s capable of playing both positions effectively. "Her best position is as an outside hitter, but she’s capable of handling several roles for us," says Barnes. Dale’s ability to perform at a high level in various positions makes her a crucial asset to the team.
#6 Aysia Whitley - 5’10", Freshman, Middle Hitter, Loris High School (Loris, SC)
Aysia Whitley, a multi-sport athlete out of South Carolina, is a powerful addition to the LCC roster. Standing at 5’10", Whitley brings raw athleticism to the middle hitter position. "Aysia’s athleticism is off the charts," says Barnes. Despite her needing to develop in the technical aspects of volleyball, Whitley’s potential is undeniable. Barnes sees Whitley as a player with the ability to become a game-changer for the team as she continues to improve.
#1 Maddie Horner - 5’5", Freshman, Setter/Defensive Specialist, Williams High School (Burlington, NC)
Maddie Horner is expected to run the offense as the primary setter for LCC this season. A highly skilled and experienced setter, Horner’s presence is expected to elevate the team’s offensive execution. "She has great hands, knows how to run an offense, and is multi-skilled," says Barnes. Her ability to set, serve, and swing makes her a versatile and valuable player. Horner's leadership on the court will be critical for LCC's success this season.
#12 Peyton Kimber - 5’11", Freshman, Middle Hitter, Eastern Alamance High School (Mebane, NC)
At 5’11", Peyton Kimber adds a strong physical presence to LCC’s middle hitter position. Having developed a strong bond with setter Maddie Horner from their club volleyball days, Kimber’s ability to block and attack efficiently makes her a key player in both the offense and defense. "Peyton has a great bond with Maddie, and they’ll be key in running our offense smoothly," Barnes notes. Kimber’s power and height will make her a key figure at the net.
#3 Zy’asia Watts - 5’6", Freshman, Opposite Hitter/Outside Hitter, North Pitt High School (Bethel, NC)
Zy’asia Watts, although smaller in stature at 5’6", makes up for her height with explosive athleticism and a growing volleyball IQ. Initially signed for her athletic potential, Watts has improved significantly in her understanding of the game since arriving at LCC. "We signed her for her raw talent, but now she’s becoming a complete volleyball player," says Barnes. Watts’ versatility allows her to fill roles both as an opposite hitter and an outside hitter, giving LCC more flexibility on the court.
#4 Mary Grace Miles - 5’5", Freshman, Libero/Defensive Specialist, Northeast Academy (Edenton, NC)
A hard-nosed defensive specialist, Mary Grace Miles brings intensity and consistency to LCC’s back row. Always working to improve her game, Miles is a crucial part of the team’s defensive setup. "Both kids are hard-nosed and always working to improve," Barnes says of his defensive unit. Miles is expected to compete for the libero position, using her excellent ball control to help keep the team in system and push them into offensive play.
#9 Erin Dailey - 5’4", Freshman, Libero/Defensive Specialist, Mandarin High School (Jacksonville, FL)
Joining the defensive rotation, Erin Dailey is another freshman who will challenge for the libero spot. Known for her relentless pursuit of the ball and strong serve-receive skills, Dailey’s tenacity will be a driving force in LCC’s defensive efforts. "Both kids are always working to improve," Barnes says of Miles and Dailey, suggesting a healthy competition that will ultimately benefit the team. One will emerge as the primary libero, but both are expected to contribute significantly to the defense.
#11 Keyerra Marie Moore - 5’11", Freshman, Opposite/Middle Hitter, Heide Trask High School (Rocky Point, NC)
At 5’11", Keyerra Marie Moore is a versatile front-row player capable of making an impact both as an opposite hitter and a middle hitter. Moore’s height and strong arm make her a valuable addition to the team’s offense, while her serving skills bring another dimension to her game. "She’ll play some front row and spot serve, and we’re working on her back-row skills to complement her serve," says Barnes. Moore’s ability to contribute in multiple ways will give the team depth and flexibility.
Looking Ahead
With a roster full of athleticism, experience, and developing talent, Coach Barnes and the LCC volleyball team are poised for a breakout season. "These kids are great examples on and off the court, and I couldn’t ask for more from a group that’s working this hard," Barnes concludes. Last season’s 13-12 record and a second-round playoff appearance has set the stage for greater expectations in 2024. Keep an eye on LCC as they aim to make noise in the Region 10 competition this year
