Captains Mahala Weintraub, Layla Brown, and Layla Lynch guide Montclair Kimberley’s balanced attack as defending Prep B champions aim for deeper state run
The Montclair Kimberley Academy volleyball program has built a championship culture that transcends individual achievements. As the defending Prep B champions prepare for another title pursuit, captains Mahala Weintraub, Layla Brown, and Layla Lynch lead a cohesive team ready to compete at the highest level.
Under head coach Kyla Sebello, the 2024 SEC Coach of the Year, MKA has created an environment where players develop together while maintaining championship expectations. Sebello’s coaching philosophy emphasizes mental toughness and program culture that produces sustained success.
The Leadership Triumvirate
The Cougars’ captains bring diverse strengths that complement each other perfectly. Senior captain Weintraub orchestrated the 2024 championship offense with 336 assists while contributing 26 kills and 55 aces. Senior captain Brown dominated as an outside hitter with 115 kills while adding 123 digs. Junior captain Lynch led the team’s offensive attack with 201 kills across 59 sets while adding 135 digs, demonstrating the versatility that makes her an ideal bridge between veteran leadership and program continuity.
“The energy is incredibly high right now,” Layla Lynch notes. “We only lost two senior starting players, so we have a strong foundation returning. We know each other’s strengths and we trust each other, which we’ve been building on throughout preseason to create that unity on the court.”
Coach Sebello’s Championship System
Sebello’s SEC Coach of the Year recognition reflects her ability to maximize team potential while developing individual players within a collective framework. Her impact extends beyond tactical preparation to encompass the mental and emotional aspects of championship volleyball.
“Coach Kyla Sebello has been pushing us harder than ever because our goal is to go deeper at states,” Lynch explains. “We’re hoping to defend our 2024 Prep B championship.”
Balanced Offensive Attack
MKA’s championship success was built on a balanced offensive system featuring multiple threats. Senior Ava Wheeler provided crucial interior presence with 69 kills and 78 blocks from the middle blocker position, adding veteran leadership to complement the captains’ guidance.
The Cougars’ balanced approach creates multiple threats while preventing opponents from keying on individual players. The close-knit roster means every player’s contribution becomes crucial to the team’s success.
Returning Players and New Addition
Setter Corinne Kittles, who posted 25 kills, 136 digs, and 30 aces during the 2024 championship season, now steps into an expanded role running the offense alongside senior captain Weintraub.
“This year, Corinne is stepping into a bigger role as setter and Sophie is taking command as libero, both of which will be game changers,” Lynch notes.
Defensive specialist Sophie Brown, who demonstrated her potential with 28 digs and 27 service points in 2024, now takes on the crucial libero position. Outside hitter Ruby Erickson brings valuable experience after contributing 39 service points in 2024, while Ananya Jetley joins the program as an exciting new addition.
“We also have a lot of talented players joining us, which is awesome,” Lynch adds. “We can’t wait to see them grow and contribute over time.”
Championship Continuity
The Cougars’ championship defense benefits from remarkable continuity, with experienced captains returning to lead a core of talented players. This retention creates opportunity for a program built around developing young talent.
“Returning starters include senior captains Layla Brown and Mahala Weintraub, junior captain Layla Lynch, senior Ava Wheeler, and Corinne Kittles and Sophie Brown,” Lynch explains. “While our starting lineup is strong, we have talent across the board, which gives us flexibility and keeps us competitive in every rotation.”
The Mental Game Advantage
MKA has made mental preparation a cornerstone of development, creating resilience that serves players well in pressure situations.
“The biggest improvement I’ve made is in my attack consistency and mindset,” Lynch explains. “Volleyball is a game of momentum, and I’ve learned not to let one play define me. Instead, I reset quickly and move on to the next ball.”
Lynch also shared insights about her preparation approach. “This summer I focused heavily on strength and endurance training in the gym, making sure I’m in the best condition to handle long rallies and tough matches,” Lynch explains. “But more than anything, I worked on my mental toughness – learning how to stay present, shake off mistakes, and keep pushing forward when things aren’t perfect.”
Championship Culture and Life Lessons
The program’s championship culture extends beyond wins and losses to encompass character building and life lessons that serve athletes well beyond volleyball.
“Volleyball has shaped me more than any other activity,” Lynch reflects. “It’s taught me perseverance, self-discipline, and the power of optimism. When I started, I used to overthink every mistake. But the game has taught me that errors are part of growth, and the only thing I can control is my effort and preparation.”
The Cougars emphasize handling pressure with grace in all aspects of life. “Most importantly, volleyball has taught me how to handle pressure with grace,” Lynch adds. “Whether it’s balancing school and athletics, or being a supportive friend and leader, I’ve learned to stay steady and positive in the moments that matter most.”
Players to Watch
“Fans should definitely watch out for Layla Brown and me crushing it at the net, while Mahala Weintraub and Corinne Kittles control the pace as setters,” Lynch notes.
“And honestly – all our other returning players like senior Ava Wheeler in the middle, Sophie Brown at libero, Ruby Erickson and others are all amazing contributors that make the team click!”
Leadership Philosophy and Legacy
Lynch’s approach to captaincy focuses on creating an environment where different types of contributors can flourish. “As one of our captains this year, I’m most excited to show my leadership on the court,” Lynch states. “I want to create a culture where my teammates feel supported and confident, knowing that every single person contributes to our success.”
“I see my role in keeping the positive energy flowing and making sure everyone feels valued, whether they’re veterans or newcomers,” she explains.
Lynch’s leadership philosophy emphasizes building others up. “For me, leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice, it’s about seeing people, encouraging them, and helping them believe in themselves,” Lynch explains. “I want my legacy to be that I built people up – on and off the court.”
“I want to be remembered for my optimism, leadership, and the joy I bring to the game,” Lynch reflects. “Wins and losses come and go, but what lasts is how you make people feel. I want my teammates to remember me as someone who always lifted them up, kept us smiling, and made volleyball feel fun, even in the toughest moments.”
Championship Defense
MKA competes in the challenging SEC American Division, where programs like Verona, Livingston, and Mount St. Dominic provide regular tests. The conference schedule prepares the Cougars for state tournament challenges while building the experience necessary for deep tournament runs.
As the defending Prep B champions prepare for another championship pursuit, the combination of experienced leadership, talented players, and proven coaching creates legitimate title aspirations. With captains Weintraub, Brown, and Lynch guiding the way and Coach Sebello’s proven system providing structure, MKA’s championship defense represents a commitment to excellence that should produce competitive teams for years to come.
The Cougars’ approach continues to redefine what’s possible when talented players embrace both individual excellence and collective responsibility. Their championship foundation suggests the best of MKA volleyball lies ahead.
