Virginia Signs DS/L Kate Johnson

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Virginia volleyball head coach Shannon Wells announced the signing of defensive specialist/libero Kate Johnson (Gainesville, Fla.) on Wednesday (Feb. 9). Johnson, a senior at Buchholz High School, will begin training with the program this summer.

“Kate is an elite athlete who has competed at the highest level in both volleyball and soccer,” said Wells. “Her length, speed, athleticism and acumen consistently make her one of the best defensive players in any gym she plays in. She’s a highlight reel waiting to happen. Kate is the ultimate student-athlete and will make an immediate impact in our program and in our community. We are excited for her to join our team this summer.”

Johnson was a standout athlete in both volleyball and soccer for the Bobcats. In volleyball, she was a three-time First Team All-Region selection and led Buchholz to district championships in 2019 and 2020. She was the Bobcats’ Team MVP in 2020 and 2021 and was named Buchholz’s Female Student Athlete of the Year three years in a row (2019-21). In the classroom, she earned AP Scholar with Distinction recognitions three times (2020-22).

On the club circuit, Johnson played for Gainesville Juniors. Her team won the AAU Premier Division National Championship four years in a row (2017-20). In 2021, her team placed second in USA Volleyball’s USA Division. Johnson is a five-time AAU All-American (2016-20).

Johnson is currently one of three signees who will begin competing for the Cavaliers in the Fall of 2022. Ole Miss transfers GG Carvacho and Gabby Easton began training with the program last month.