Lassen Beach Volleyball 2026 Season Preview
After finishing second in the Golden Valley Conference in 2025, Lassen Beach Volleyball enters the new season with experience, momentum, and a deeper roster ready to take the next step. The Cougars proved last spring they belong among the top programs in the conference, and with a strong sophomore core returning alongside an impressive freshman class, expectations are rising in Susanville.
Veteran Leadership Sets the Tone
Lassen’s success starts with a talented sophomore group that understands what it takes to compete for a conference title. Pacey Harris (Elko, NV) headlines the returners after an incredible prep career that included League MVP honors (2024), 1st Team All-State (2024), and 2nd Team All-State (2023). She brings high-level experience and competitive fire to the sand.
Makala Crosno (Susanville, CA) returns after earning All-League honors in high school, while Meleny Medina (Reno, NV) and Lucy Platz (Reno, NV) add valuable match experience and composure. Betty Kay Overcash (Malin, OR), a 5’11” presence at the net, combines size with an impressive résumé that includes Academic All-State honors all four years, an FFA State Degree, and All-League defensive recognition.
Taylor McElhaney (Susanville) brings elite competitiveness to every practice after earning a 4.0 GPA all four years, three-time volleyball MVP honors, and multiple defensive awards in high school. This group provides stability, leadership, and a standard of excellence for the program.
Freshman Class Brings Athleticism and Upside
The 2026 freshman class adds depth and long-term potential. Roxy Keim (Elko, NV) arrives as a 3A Northern Region Champion and 1st Team All-State selection (2024), bringing size (5’10”) and high-level match experience.
Alison Mumm (Reno, NV) brings championship leadership qualities after serving as a high school captain and earning multiple academic awards, including a significant scholarship offer from Dominican University. Ruby DeChambeau, Makennah Howe, and Vanessa Lott provide versatility and athleticism, while Alasia Williams (Westwood, CA) joins the program after serving as a high school team captain.
This incoming group gives Lassen more lineup flexibility than ever before — critical in beach volleyball where chemistry, pairing strategy, and matchups determine dual outcomes.
Building on 2025’s Success
Last season’s second-place finish established Lassen as a legitimate conference contender. The Cougars were competitive across all five courts and demonstrated the toughness required in dual competition. With nearly the entire sophomore core returning and impact freshmen added, the program now has both experience and internal competition pushing standards higher.
The focus this season will be consistency — closing out tight third sets, protecting home sand, and performing in key conference matchups. If the Cougars can combine their veteran leadership with the energy of their newcomers, Lassen Beach Volleyball has the tools to challenge for a Golden Valley Conference Championship in 2026.