On Thursday, the Columbus Fury announced the signing of 11 players, marking the first roster additions assembled by head coach Dave Boos and general manager Eric Schulze as the organization builds toward the 2027 Major League Volleyball (MLV) season.

The signing class combines returning Fury standouts, championship experience, international talent, and some of the sport’s most promising young players, reflecting the competitive identity Boos and Schulze are establishing in Columbus.

The signing class includes setter Averi Carlson; liberos Kamaile Hiapo and Emmy Klika; middle blockers Regan Nelson, Kaitlyn Hord and Nataša Čikuc-Deans; outside hitters Mina Mijatović, Iveta Stanchulova, Alexis Shelton and Ava Martin; and opposite Anna Dixon.

Among the signees are 2026 Major League Volleyball All-Star Regan Nelson, returning libero Kamaile Hiapo, 2026 MLV Champion Kaitlyn Hord, Emmy Klika, Serbian National Team players Mina Mijatović and Nataša Čikuc-Deans, and veteran international outside hitter Iveta Stanchulova. Klika is a native of Novelty, Ohio and attended high school at Gilmour Academy.

“From the beginning, our goal was to identify players who not only have the talent to compete at the highest level, but who also embody the culture of growth and connectivity we want to create in Columbus,” said Boos.

“This class brings together elite competitors, experienced professionals, and emerging stars who are hungry to improve every day. We believe this group gives us the versatility, athleticism, and competitiveness needed to play an exciting brand of volleyball and build something special for our fans and community.”

“Since Dave and I joined the organization, we’ve worked relentlessly to identify players who fit the culture, style of play, and vision we have for the future of the Columbus Fury,” said Schulze. “We knew we needed to move quickly, but we also wanted to be intentional. We’re extremely excited about the talent, character, and competitiveness this group brings to Columbus.”

The roster features a blend of returning Fury talent, championship experience, national team athletes, and professionals who have competed at the highest levels of the sport throughout North America and Europe. 

“Our focus has been on building the strongest possible future for this franchise,” Schulze said. “We believe this group gives us tremendous talent, versatility and experience, and we’re excited to continue adding pieces as we build a roster capable of competing with the best teams in Major League Volleyball.” 

The team noted in a press release that additional player announcements, roster moves, and team updates will be announced throughout the offseason.

2027 Columbus Fury Signings:

Setter: 
Averi Carlson

Liberos: 
Kamaile Hiapo
Emmy Klika

Middle Blockers: 
Regan Nelson
Kaitlyn Hord
Nataša Čikuc-Deans

Outside Hitters: 
Ava Martin
Mina Mijatović
Alexis Shelton
Iveta Stanchulova

Opposite:
Anna Dixon