Point. Set. Match. That’s a wrap for the ladies in black. Coming off a disappointing season in 2024, the Dubs came into the 2025 season with something to prove — and they very much did. The volleyball team finished with a 22-11 record, ranked 34th in Georgia, and 3rd in a very tough region. The team made it all the way to the sweet sixteen of the state playoffs — furthest in program history, proving they can compete with anyone. For seniors, it was the final serve in a long journey. For the younger players, it was just the beginning of that journey.
For senior leader Samantha Bailey, the 2025 season was defined by growth and resilience. Proud of the team’s success, Bailey reflected on a journey filled with ups and downs. For her, the highlight was the run to the sweet sixteen — especially the opening match of the tournament, where the thrill of advancing to the next round matched the excitement of competing with her teammates for one final run. While the postseason ended sooner than hoped, she views it as a milestone that raises the bar for future players. Her message to those who follow is one that encourages confidence. Playing with confidence elevates skill and makes the game easier, she said. As she prepares to depart from high school volleyball, Bailey expresses how she will miss the moments with her teammates and the bond they’ve created. “We’ve become a family, and I’m gonna miss making memories with them,” she said.
Dorothy Perno is a second year varsity junior who was a staple in the team’s rotation. Alongside Bailey, Perno was pleased with the way the team competed all year and fought to make it as far as they did — although noting that they will work even harder to go even further next year. Perno was extremely grateful for the senior leadership they had and said they were the motor that pushed the team forward. Filled with a mix of emotions, she is a little nervous yet excited for the opportunity to step into a bigger role next season. Perno said, “I’m hype, but it’s still a little scary, you know. We’re gonna be ready though.”
Similar to Perno, Eleni Karagannis is a junior here at North Atlanta and a star on the court. Big on culture, Karagannis was thrilled to see what this past season meant for the program going forward. The energy. The positivity. The hustle. She said that consistency is one of her main goals for next year and hopes it will bring further success to the team. “We’ve got a taste of that title, now it’s time to build on it,” she said.
The Dubs sweet sixteen appearance is just one of the mighty accomplishments of the volleyball season for North Atlanta. The run marked more than just a record — it showed how far the team can go, and it’s just the beginning.
