Indianapolis, December 30, 2025
The Indy Ignite, Indianapolis’ professional women’s volleyball team, is gearing up for the upcoming Major League Volleyball season under new head coach Lauren Bertolacci. With a focus on a fast-paced and aggressive playing style, Bertolacci aims to enhance the team’s performance. The coaching staff includes experienced members and new talents, and initial player signings promise to strengthen the roster. The Ignite looks to build on their inaugural season’s success, with their home opener scheduled for January 24, featuring a rematch against the Omaha Supernovas.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Indy Ignite Gears Up for 2026 Season Under New Leadership
The Indy Ignite, Indianapolis’ professional women’s volleyball team, is set to embark on an exciting new chapter in the 2026 Major League Volleyball (MLV) season under the leadership of head coach Lauren Bertolacci. The team is focused on building upon their strong foundation from the previous season and introducing an aggressive, fast-paced style of play that promises to captivate fans.
New Leadership and Coaching Staff
In July 2025, the Ignite appointed Lauren Bertolacci as their head coach. Bertolacci brings a wealth of experience from her tenure in Switzerland, where she led Viteos NUC to six national championships and four Swiss Cup titles. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes a bold and aggressive approach to the game, aiming to create an exciting and dynamic environment for both players and fans.
To support this vision, Bertolacci has assembled a coaching staff that combines continuity with fresh talent. Haley Brightwell, a longtime assistant coach from Switzerland, joins the team, bringing a championship mindset and tactical expertise. Returning assistant coaches Brett Agne and Bruno Amorim will continue to develop players and foster the team’s culture. Additionally, Taylor Marten has been appointed as the director of volleyball operations, contributing her experience from NCAA and USA Volleyball programs to enhance the team’s operations and performance.
Player Roster and Signings
The Ignite have been proactive in shaping their roster for the upcoming season. The initial phase of player signings includes returning middle blocker Blake Mohler and newcomers outside hitters Kayla Lund and Elise James, along with opposite hitter Camryn Hannah. These additions aim to strengthen the team’s lineup and support the aggressive playing style envisioned by the new coaching staff. The roster will be further solidified following the collegiate draft in November and additional free-agent signings.
Season Outlook and Fan Engagement
Looking ahead, the Ignite are eager to build on their successful inaugural season, where they advanced to the MLV championship finals. The team is committed to delivering an exciting brand of volleyball that fans can look forward to. The home opener is scheduled for January 24, 2026, at the Fishers Event Center, featuring a highly anticipated matchup against the Omaha Supernovas, whom the Ignite previously upset in the playoffs. Fans can expect a dynamic and engaging atmosphere as the team strives to make a strong impression in the 2026 season.
Background Context
The Indy Ignite were established as part of the Pro Volleyball Federation, which later merged with Major League Volleyball to form the current league structure. In their inaugural season, the Ignite demonstrated strong performance, culminating in a runner-up finish in the championship finals. The team’s commitment to excellence and community engagement has set a promising foundation for the upcoming season under new leadership.
Key Features of the 2026 Indy Ignite Season
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Head Coach | Lauren Bertolacci, with extensive coaching experience in Switzerland, appointed to lead the team. |
| Coaching Staff | Includes Haley Brightwell, Brett Agne, Bruno Amorim, and Taylor Marten, combining continuity with fresh talent. |
| Player Roster | Initial signings include Blake Mohler, Kayla Lund, Elise James, and Camryn Hannah, with further additions expected. |
| Playing Style | Emphasis on a bold, aggressive, and fast-paced style of play to engage fans and enhance performance. |
| Home Opener | Scheduled for January 24, 2026, at the Fishers Event Center, featuring a matchup against the Omaha Supernovas. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the new head coach of the Indy Ignite?
Lauren Bertolacci has been appointed as the head coach of the Indy Ignite for the 2026 season. She brings extensive experience from her coaching tenure in Switzerland, where she led Viteos NUC to multiple national championships and Swiss Cup titles.
What is the Ignite’s playing style for the upcoming season?
The Ignite plan to adopt a bold, aggressive, and fast-paced style of play, aiming to create an exciting and dynamic environment for both players and fans.
When is the Ignite’s home opener for the 2026 season?
The Ignite’s home opener is scheduled for January 24, 2026, at the Fishers Event Center, featuring a matchup against the Omaha Supernovas.
Who are some of the new players signed for the 2026 season?
The Ignite have signed outside hitters Kayla Lund and Elise James, along with opposite hitter Camryn Hannah, to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
What was the Ignite’s performance in their inaugural season?
In their inaugural season, the Ignite advanced to the MLV championship finals, showcasing strong performance and setting a promising foundation for future success.
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