Bio

Position: Outside Hitter/Right-Side Hitter
Year: Freshman
Hometown: Ocoee, Florida
High School: Ocoee High School
High School Graduation: 2026

Maya Henderson is a freshman outside and right-side hitter from Ocoee, Florida, and a 2026 graduate of Ocoee High School. Henderson first played volleyball recreationally in the fifth grade before beginning to compete more seriously during her freshman year of high school.

One of her proudest high school athletic achievements came during her senior season, when she surpassed 120 kills and broke a school record.

Henderson chose Wallace State because of the college’s combination of strong academics and successful athletics. She was also drawn to the welcoming atmosphere she experienced during the recruiting process.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to at the school has been so kind, and I genuinely see myself becoming part of the Wallace family,” Henderson said.

She credits her parents with having the greatest impact on her athletic journey. Their support and encouragement have helped her reach the college level.

“They have supported me in everything I do, and without them I would not have made it this far,” Henderson said.

Her proudest moment as a Wallace State athlete so far was committing to the volleyball program. Henderson said she immediately felt comfortable when she visited campus and knew Wallace State was where she wanted to continue her academic and athletic career.

“As soon as I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I wanted to be,” Henderson said. “I’m so excited to see what’s in store for my first season.”

The recruiting process taught Henderson that every athlete’s path is different. She learned not to compare her journey with those of other players and instead focus on the opportunities that are right for her.

“What’s for you is for you,” Henderson said. “Everyone’s journey is different, and what’s best for you may be very different from what’s best for someone else. Focus on your journey so you can be the best you can be.”

Henderson places a strong emphasis on academics and believes the word student should always come first in student-athlete.

“I always say I am a STUDENT-athlete — student first and athlete second,” Henderson said. “My sport can only take me so far, so I always make sure I work on assignments during any free time I have. Without academics, I would not have this opportunity.”

Her primary personal goal is to become more consistent in every area of her life. She wants to be dependable in her performance, academics, attitude and role as a teammate. As a team, Henderson wants the Lions to push one another, remain accountable and continue improving throughout the season.

Her favorite practice drills are those involving six-on-six competition because they allow her to experience realistic game situations and compete alongside her teammates.

Before matches, Henderson writes the scripture reference Philippians 4:13 on every pair of court shoes she wears. She also recites the verse before each match begins. Her go-to hype song is “LA MuDANZA” by Bad Bunny.

Henderson mentally prepares for competition by repeating affirmations and visualizing herself succeeding. Before listening to music or beginning her full pregame routine, she takes approximately five minutes to breathe, remain present and settle her mind.

She believes her teammates would describe her as bubbly, social and someone who makes an effort to connect with everyone she meets.

Had she not chosen volleyball, Henderson said she would likely have continued dancing. She danced for five years before transitioning to basketball and eventually volleyball.

“I’ve always loved dance and wish I had stayed with it a little longer,” Henderson said.

Her favorite professional athlete is Carter Bryant of the San Antonio Spurs. Henderson admires his personality, relationship with his teammates and the work he has put in during his rookie season to earn a place in the starting rotation.

“He seems like such a fun and genuine person, and I love how close he is with his teammates,” Henderson said. “He has worked his way into the starting rotation, and that is something I want to strive for.”

A fun fact about Henderson is that she played basketball for eight years and was a member of a 10-and-under team that qualified for nationals.

Outside volleyball, Henderson enjoys doing hair and baking sweet treats. She is known for her big, curly hair and finds it therapeutic to style both her own hair and the hair of others.

After college, Henderson plans to pursue a career in sports management. Her dream is to work behind the scenes for a professional sports organization, preferably in volleyball or the NBA.

During her time at Wallace State, Henderson wants to be remembered as both a strong player and a supportive teammate. She hopes others recognize the joy, energy and leadership she brings to the court.

“I want to be someone people can point to and see the joy and leadership I bring to the court,” Henderson said.

Her advice to younger athletes is to remember that the game is bigger than any individual performance.

“It’s not about you,” Henderson said. “No matter how good or bad of a game you are having, the game is bigger than you. If you’re having a bad game and someone else is having a great one, cheer them on and hype them up. If you’re having a good game and someone else is struggling, lift them up. Stats don’t mean anything if you’re not a good teammate.”