Emily McKee ’26 Named Gatorade Connecticut Volleyball Player of the Year
Emily McKee ’26 has been named the 2025-26 Gatorade Connecticut Volleyball Player of the Year, an honor recognizing the state’s top high school athlete for excellence in sports, academics, and community impact. She joins an elite national legacy of honorees, including Olympic champions and professional athletes.
“I felt incredibly grateful when I heard the news,” said Emily. “This recognition reflects the support, guidance, and encouragement I’ve received at King, especially from Coach Kat, as well as the lessons I’ve learned about perseverance and teamwork along the way. I’m thankful for everyone who has been part of my journey.”
A 5-foot-11 outside hitter, Emily led King School Volleyball to a 23-0 record and a second consecutive NEPSAC Class A championship this past season. She compiled 352 kills, 169 digs, 44 assists, 41 service aces, and 28 blocks, finishing with a .602 kill percentage and .477 hitting percentage. In the NEPSAC final against Buckingham Browne & Nichols, she contributed 13 kills and seven digs in a straight-set win.
"Emily’s dedication, leadership, and focus set her apart on and off the court," said Head Coach Kat Pitasi. "She not only excels in skill and performance, but also inspires her teammates, approaches every challenge with poise, and lifts the entire team. This award reflects her talent, character, and the consistent effort she brings to every practice and match."
Emily was also named NEPSAC Class A Player of the Year and concluded her prep career as a four-time NEPSAC and FAA champion, finishing with 1,104 career kills and an 86-1 overall record.
"What makes Emily truly exceptional isn’t just her statistics or awards," Pitasi added. "It’s her mindset — how she shows up every day prepared, engaged, and focused on what she can control, while supporting her teammates in ways big and small. That dedication and consistency have allowed her to grow into the leader she is today, and this recognition is a testament to her impact on our program and community."
Off the court, Emily has made a significant impact through community service, including volunteering with Inspirica and the King Connections Club, as well as serving as a youth volleyball coach for children with special needs. She has maintained a 4.24 weighted GPA and recently signed her National Letter of Intent to play at the College of William & Mary.
Emily’s recognition continues a legacy of Gatorade honors at King School. Last year, Caroline Ellis ’25 earned the 2024-25 Gatorade Connecticut Volleyball Player of the Year, becoming only the second athlete from King to receive the award. Ellis led the Vikings to an undefeated 21-0 record and a NEPSAC Class A title, finishing her career with 1,002 kills, four NEPSAC championships, and three FAA titles before committing to play at the University of Mississippi.
This recognition underscores the culture of excellence that defines King Volleyball, where athletes like Emily combine skill, preparation, leadership, and community impact to achieve remarkable success.