University of Louisville volleyball players Kalyssa Blackshear and Payton Petersen were named to the 2026 U.S. Women’s Under-21 National Team, according to an April 13 announcement by USA Volleyball.
Blackshear and Petersen are among 27 athletes chosen to train with the national team from June 26 through July 5 in Columbus, Ohio. After this training period, coaches will select 14 players who will represent the United States at the NORCECA U21 Pan American Cup, also held in Columbus from July 7 to July 12.
Blackshear previously served as an alternate for Team USA on the Girls U19 National Team that won silver at the World Championship in Osijek, Croatia in 2025. In her freshman season with Louisville in 2025, she started all 32 matches and was recognized as ACC Freshman of the Year after recording a total of 336 kills and 179 blocks. She also earned spots on several all-conference teams including All-ACC Second Team, All-ACC Freshman Team, and AVCA All-South Region First Team.
Petersen is making her first appearance on a national team with this selection. During her sophomore year at Louisville, she started all matches for her team and finished second overall in both points (436.5) and kills (393). At season’s end she was named to the All-ACC Second Team as well as receiving Honorable Mention honors on the AVCA All-South Region Team.
The roster for the U.S. Women’s U21 National Team includes athletes from various universities across the country along with high school standouts. The coaching staff is led by Head Coach Tama Miyashiro of LOVB.
The selection highlights continued recognition for collegiate volleyball talent nationwide as preparations begin for international competition later this summer.
