8-28-25
MacKenzie Vellis embodies the spirit of resilience and leadership that defines Rutherford High School volleyball. As one of seven senior starters returning to a program that has built its foundation on unity, determination, and unwavering support for one another, Vellis represents the heart of a team poised to make significant strides in their pursuit of championship glory.
A Season That Defined Character
The defining moment of Vellis’s volleyball journey came during last season’s Bergen County Invitational Championship, when adversity struck at the most challenging time. The experience revealed the true character of both the player and the program she helps lead.
“Last season was memorable because it demonstrates how close and supportive my team is,” Vellis reflected. “Our setter injured herself during the first round of the Tournament. We pulled together as a team. Players stepped into positions they never played before. Each one of us had to learn how to set. We won the next three rounds. Our setter returned for the last two games allowing us to win the championship.”
That championship victory stands as a testament to the program’s culture and the leadership that players like Vellis provide. When faced with a crisis that could have ended their tournament run, the Bulldogs demonstrated the kind of adaptability and collective spirit that championship teams possess. The fact that multiple players learned new positions on the fly, including setting responsibilities they had never handled before, speaks to both their individual versatility and their commitment to team success.
Vellis’s ability to adapt and step into unfamiliar roles reflects the kind of court awareness and decision-making skills that she has developed through her experiences as a multi-sport athlete. Her background competing at the varsity level in basketball has enhanced her volleyball leadership, providing her with additional perspective on game management and the mental toughness required to perform under pressure.
Experience and Chemistry Drive Optimism
Entering the new season, Rutherford volleyball finds itself in an enviable position with veteran leadership and established team chemistry. The continuity provided by many returning starters creates a foundation for sustained excellence that few programs can match.
“I am optimistic because this upcoming season we have 7 senior starters returning,” Vellis explained. “Most of us have been playing together for the last three years and have developed good chemistry. We all know our role and have confidence in each other to step up when needed.”
This level of experience and familiarity cannot be taught or rushed. The fact that this core group has grown together over multiple seasons creates an understanding that transcends individual positions or responsibilities. Each player knows not only their own role but also how to support their teammates when circumstances demand adaptation.
The team’s 24-8 record from the previous season provides a solid foundation to build upon, but more importantly, it represents the results of a group that has learned to compete together through both victories and setbacks. Vellis’s competitive experience across multiple sports has contributed to her understanding of what it takes to maintain consistency throughout a long season.
Depth of Talent Across All Positions
The strength of Rutherford’s program extends well beyond individual stars to encompass a deep roster of committed players who each contribute to the team’s success. Vellis highlighted the various ways her teammates impact the game and support the program’s goals.
“This season we have many key players returning,” she noted. “This includes our 4-year varsity starter setter Cate Finan who had passed her 1,000 assist milestone last year. Another 4-year starter is our libero Tessa Davidson who is on the way to break the dig record for Rutherford High School.”
The milestone achievements of players like Finan and Davidson demonstrate the sustained excellence that has become synonymous with Rutherford volleyball. When a setter reaches 1,000 career assists, it reflects not only individual skill but also the trust and confidence of teammates who consistently put her in position to succeed. Similarly, a libero approaching the school’s all-time dig record speaks to both defensive prowess and the durability required to excel at such a demanding position.
The offensive capabilities of the team extend across multiple positions and players. “We also have our starting middle Juliette Sing, along with rightside Cate Metzger, and Mia George have been offensive forces at the net,” Vellis explained. “Our defensive specialist Janina Barna is a significant help in the backrow.”
This balanced attack creates challenges for opposing defenses while ensuring that Rutherford can adapt their offensive approach based on matchups and game situations. Having multiple offensive threats allows the team to remain unpredictable and puts pressure on opponents to defend the entire court.
The integration of new talent demonstrates the program’s ability to develop players and maintain competitive depth. “A new face to watch out for this year is Junior Payton Lewis who has earned a Varsity position this year,” Vellis noted, highlighting the program’s commitment to recognizing and developing emerging talent.
Championship Aspirations and Realistic Expectations
Rutherford’s goals for the season reflect both ambition and an understanding of what it takes to achieve sustained success. The team has set clear objectives while maintaining the humility and work ethic that championship contenders require.
“Our team has high expectations for this year,” Vellis shared. “Striving for a league title is on the top of our list, although we know it is going to take hard work and dedication. We don’t take anything for granted and know we have to fight for every win.”
This balanced perspective between confidence and humility often distinguishes teams that achieve their goals from those that fall short. Recognizing that success must be earned through consistent effort and preparation creates a foundation for sustained excellence throughout a long season.
The team’s postseason aspirations build upon lessons learned from previous tournaments. “We are also working towards a run during the state tournament. Last year we lost during a 3 set-battle against Verona,” Vellis explained. “With six of us graduating this year, we want our season to last as long as possible.”
The reference to their previous tournament loss demonstrates the kind of learning mindset that successful programs cultivate. Rather than dwelling on disappointment, the team has used that experience as motivation and preparation for future opportunities. Vellis’s experience competing in high-pressure situations across multiple sports has helped her understand how to channel disappointment into motivation for future success.
Leadership Through Coaching Excellence
Rutherford’s Head Coach has created an environment where experienced players like Vellis can flourish while continuing to develop both individually and as leaders. The relationship between coach and players reflects mutual respect and shared commitment to excellence.
“Our Coach Helen Antzoulides is excited to have an experienced returning roster,” Vellis observed. “She is incorporating new styles of play this season. She knows her players trust one another. I’m thankful for having her as a coach. She has a way of fostering team spirit while pushing us individually to be the best person and player we can be.”
The willingness to incorporate new elements into their system demonstrates both coaching adaptability and player buy-in that championship teams require. When experienced players embrace new concepts and approaches, it creates opportunities for growth that can elevate an already successful program.
The emphasis on developing players as individuals beyond their volleyball abilities speaks to the comprehensive approach that defines quality high school programs. Coaches who focus on character development alongside athletic achievement create environments where players can reach their full potential both on and off the court.
Building on Success with Higher Expectations
The foundation of success from the previous season provides both confidence and motivation as Rutherford looks to achieve even greater heights. The team’s track record creates expectations while also demonstrating their capacity for continued improvement.
“Last year we were 24-8. But I think this team has what it takes to beat last year’s record,” Vellis stated confidently. “We have already seen improvement during our Summer League and I look forward to see what else we can accomplish as our team chemistry continues to develop each day.”
The evidence of improvement during summer competition provides tangible proof that the team’s optimism is grounded in observable progress rather than mere wishful thinking. When teams can point to specific areas of growth and development, it creates confidence that translates into performance when the stakes are highest.
The ongoing development of team chemistry, even among players who have competed together for multiple years, demonstrates the kind of commitment to continuous improvement that championship teams maintain throughout their careers.
Personal Growth and Leadership Development
As a senior leader, Vellis has set personal goals that reflect both individual improvement and commitment to the program’s future success. Her approach to leadership combines skill development with mentorship responsibilities, drawing from her experiences competing at high levels across multiple sports.
“Each year I strive to build and improve on what I accomplished last year,” she explained. “Along with diversifying my style of play, I’m working on incorporating more back row hits, and playing off the blocks. This year, I plan to take more of a leadership role on the court and help develop next year’s players.”
The focus on expanding her skill set demonstrates the kind of continuous improvement mindset that successful players maintain throughout their careers. By developing new offensive capabilities, Vellis not only makes herself more valuable to her team but also creates additional options for her coaches and teammates.
Her athletic versatility, developed through competing in multiple sports including basketball where she has excelled as a scorer and playmaker, contributes to her volleyball court awareness and ability to read game situations. The hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness developed through basketball enhance her volleyball skills while providing her with unique perspectives on team leadership and game management.
The commitment to developing younger players reflects the kind of program-first mentality that creates sustained success across multiple generations of athletes. When senior leaders invest in the development of underclassmen, it creates a culture of mentorship and continuous improvement that benefits the program long after individual players graduate.
Striking Similarity
We see a lot of similarity between MacKenzie and Jenna Rogers, the Bulldog’s all-time leader in kills who graduated in 2020. Jenna was a multi-sport athlete as well and decided to pursue her college athletic goals at track and field. She ended up breaking numerous school records as an All-American at Nebraska in the high jump. Jenna led her senior squad to a 31-2 overall record and Group final appearance.
MacKenzie has all the tools and the team around her to achieve a very similar path. She has a chance to get that one more elusive win and Group 1 title in 2025.
Future Impact
As MacKenzie and her fellow seniors prepare for their final high school volleyball campaign, their impact extends beyond individual achievements or even team accomplishments. The culture they have helped create and maintain will influence future generations of Rutherford volleyball players.
The example they set through their response to adversity, their commitment to continuous improvement, and their willingness to support one another creates a standard that future teams can aspire to match. The Bergen County Invitational Championship will be remembered not just as a victory but as proof of what becomes possible when talented players commit completely to team success.
The leadership that Vellis provides, both through her play and her mentorship of younger players, helps ensure that the program’s culture of excellence will continue beyond her graduation. When senior leaders take responsibility for developing the next generation, it creates continuity that allows programs to maintain competitive excellence across multiple seasons and player generations.
Her well-rounded athletic background, which includes significant success in basketball, has contributed to her development as a complete volleyball player and leader. The skills and mental toughness developed across multiple sports create advantages that benefit not only her individual performance but also her ability to guide and support teammates in challenging situations. As Rutherford volleyball prepares for what could be a special season, MacKenzie Vellis represents everything positive about high school athletics. Her commitment to team success, her willingness to embrace new challenges, and her dedication to supporting her teammates create the foundation upon which championship dreams are built.
