ITG Next’s October 2025 Georgia Female Athlete of the Month is Richmond Hill High School volleyball standout Talia Johnson.
Johnson, a senior, plays outside hitter for Richmond Hill’s volleyball team. According to Wildcats head volleyball coach Danielle Ennis, Johnson has been a major component in what was a successful 2025 season for her and her teammates.
Richmond Hill won the Region 1-6A title, finishing as the region’s top seed with a 40-3 overall record and at 10-0 in region play. It was the Wildcats’ fourth consecutive region championship, and, not coincidentally, Johnson has been a part of each of those championship squads.
Unfortunately, Richmond Hill was eliminated in the Elite Eight round of the Class 6A state playoffs, but Johnson definitely did her part. She was named the Region 1-6A Player of the Year and was also chosen as an All-State player. She ranked fourth in the state in kills this season.
Johnson finished the season with 357 kills, earning an impressive kill percentage of 42.3%. She averaged 3.7 kills per set, and her hitting percentage was .261. She also had 64 aces, 25 blocks, and 209 digs.
“We had a great season, and as the offensive anchor, Talia found ways to score through any block or defense,” Ennis said. “She’s also one of our closers, the one everyone counts on to seal the win with her powerful attacks.”
The Richmond Hill head coach described Johnson’s best traits.
“Talia is clearly one of the most skilled athletes in the state, but what is most impressive is her work ethic and accountability to herself,” Ennis said. “This was my first year as her varsity head coach, but I coached junior varsity last year, and I was the varsity assistant. I have known Talia for three years, and I remember the first time watching her play, I was dazzled by her vertical game as well as her court presence. She carries herself with confidence, and her volleyball IQ is extremely keen.
“Talia plays outside hitter for us, and her responsibilities are to put the ball away on offense, block on defense, and make good passes on serve receive, and she has perfected those skills over the years. She’s the floor general, leading and guiding her teammates point to point in every huddle and keeping everyone focused and united.”
Ennis said it’s not just what Johnson is able to do on the court, but away from the competition of the matches too.
“Talia is the team’s go-to player,” Ennis said. “She is the one who steps up in critical moments and delivers the points when they matter the most. She also provides a calm presence that really helps the team in tough situations.”
Johnson’s high school season may be over, but now comes the next phase for her volleyball career. She is committed to play volleyball at Coastal Carolina University, according to Ennis.
Congratulations to Talia Johnson of Richmond Hill High School, ITG Next’ October 2025 Georgia Female Athlete of the Month.
