Pine Grove looks to build on third round playoff appearance last season

July 30, 2025 Jon Myers

The Pine Grove Lady Panthers are entering the 2025 high school volleyball season with high expectations after a strong 2024 campaign. The team finished last season with an impressive 21 wins and a third-round appearance in the MHSAA 1A State Playoffs—just one year removed from capturing the state title in 2023. With a core group of experienced returners and a championship pedigree, Pine Grove is once again listed as a Mississippi Sports Group “Team to Watch” in Class 1A.

Veteran Leadership Anchors Pine Grove’s 2025 Roster

Under the leadership of Head Coach Adam Mauney, the Lady Panthers return a wealth of talent and production. With key contributors from last season back in the lineup, Pine Grove is poised for another strong postseason push.

Leading the team is 2024 Miss Volleyball and 2023 Championship MVP Mylee Switcher, who continues to shine as a six-rotation standout. Joining her are seasoned returners Kailey Butler, Bella Fryar, and Ainsley Wilkerson, all of whom played pivotal roles in the program’s recent success.

Key 2024 Statistical Leaders (Returning in 2025):

Kills Leader: Kailey Butler – 212 Kills (1.9 K/S)
Assists Leader: Mylee Switcher – 439 Assists (3.9 A/S)
Digs Leader: Ainsley Wilkerson – 509 Digs (4.5 DIG/S)
Blocks Leader: Bella Fryar – 13 Solo Blocks
Aces Leader: Mylee Switcher – 73 Aces (0.6 SA/S)

Player-by-Player Breakdown:

Mylee Switcher (36 GP, 113 Sets):
125 Kills | 439 Assists | 73 Aces | 300 Digs | 1 Solo Block
Kailey Butler (36 GP, 112 Sets):
212 Kills | 63 Aces | 246 Digs
Ainsley Wilkerson (36 GP, 113 Sets):
509 Digs | 69 Aces | Team Libero
Bella Fryar (36 GP, 113 Sets):
163 Kills | 13 Solo Blocks | 26 Digs
Reagan Childs (36 GP, 113 Sets):
92 Kills | 60 Aces | 52 Digs | 2 Solo Blocks
Madli Sartain (22 GP, 78 Sets):
113 Digs | 23 Aces | 7 Kills

Rising Stars and Depth

Sophomores Adalyn Forsythe and Reagan Childs are expected to play expanded roles this season, adding depth and energy to an already stacked rotation. With Wilkerson anchoring the defense as libero and Switcher commanding the court with her all-around play, Pine Grove boasts one of the most balanced rosters in Class 1A.

Season Outlook & Key Dates

The Lady Panthers open their 2025 campaign on Saturday, August 2nd at the Bulldog Bash, followed by a marquee regular season opener on Tuesday, August 5th against defending 2A state champion Ingomar.

With experience, leadership, and a hunger to return to the top, the Pine Grove Lady Panthers are primed for another exciting and competitive season.