Gov. Livingston Volleyball Enters 2026 with Experience,

Governor Livingston girls volleyball enters the 2026 season facing a significant challenge: replacing Abby Kim, the program's all-time leader in kills with more than 1,000, as well as the school's career leader in digs and aces. Kim has graduated and will play Division I volleyball at Loyola. Her departure, along with the graduations of middle blocker Bri Garro and defensive specialist Sarah Alves, creates a void for fifth-year coach Steve Hess and the Highlanders.

But Governor Livingston returns a strong senior core ready to lead. Setter Sierra Isbirian holds the GL record for assists in a single season with 627 career assists. She is closing in on the school's all-time record of 688 and has a real shot at reaching 1,000 career assists before her career ends. Outside hitter Mya Joseph, libero Calista Chrysanthopoulos, middle blocker Olivia Ho, opposite and middle blocker Juliana Pangis, and setter Maeve Murray complete the senior roster.

Chrysanthopoulos sits fourth on the program's all-time digs list with 212 and is expected to climb into the top two or three by season's end. Sophomore Claire Sanchez returns at outside hitter. Newcomers Kaylee Thayer, Ryan Joseph, and Ally Gardner join the varsity roster.

Coach Hess emphasized that team chemistry and consistent passing are key strengths entering the year. The Highlanders went 15-11 last season and hold a 78-32 record under Hess, who spent five years as the program's JV coach before taking over varsity. Union County Life covers Governor Livingston athletics, student achievements, and Berkeley Heights community news. Find more Governor Livingston sports, events, and local news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: Stephen O'Keefe Archive Photo, follow Peak_Reaction_Photography on Instagram

FAQ

Q: Who are the key players on Governor Livingston's volleyball team?
A: The senior core includes setter Sierra Isbirian (627 career assists), outside hitter Mya Joseph, libero Calista Chrysanthopoulos, middle blocker Olivia Ho, opposite and middle blocker Juliana Pangis, and setter Maeve Murray. Sophomore Claire Sanchez returns at outside hitter.

Q: Who did Governor Livingston lose from last season?
A: The program lost all-time kills leader Abby Kim, who had over 1,000 kills and is now playing Division I volleyball at Loyola. Middle blocker Bri Garro and defensive specialist Sarah Alves also graduated.

Q: What is Sierra Isbirian's career record for assists?
A: Isbirian has 627 career assists and is approaching the school's all-time record of 688. She has a realistic chance of reaching 1,000 career assists by the end of her senior season.

Q: What is Coach Steve Hess's record at Governor Livingston?
A: Coach Hess holds a 78-32 record over five seasons as the varsity coach. He previously spent five years as the program's JV coach before being promoted to varsity.

Q: Where can I find Governor Livingston volleyball schedules and updates?
A: Union County Life covers Governor Livingston sports, schedules, and game updates. Check the Governor Livingston High School athletics website for the complete 2026 schedule.