ORLANDO, Fla.- Orlando Valkyries, the reigning league champions, continued to make noise in free agency, signing another former All-Star in Charitie Luper. A 5’9 Outside Hitter from Dallas, Texas, Luper reunites with Hannah Maddux, as the two formed a formidable duo during their time with the Vegas Thrill last season.
“We are beyond thrilled to add a player of Charitie’s caliber,” said head coach Amy Pauly. “She’s going to do so many good things for us this year, both offensively and defensively, that I can’t wait for the city of Orlando to embrace.”
Luper joins Orlando after spending her rookie year with the Vegas Thrill in 2025, where she was drafted out of the University of Louisville with the 24th overall pick. Luper would go on to be named an All-Star in her rookie season, as she was one of four rookies to appear in the inaugural All-Star match. She finished the season ranking third on the team in kills (167), kills/set (2.53), and points (186).
Prior to embarking on her professional career, Luper began her collegiate career at UCLA (2021, 2022) before transferring to the University of Louisville (2023, 2024) At UCLA, Luper earned All-Pac-12 Honorable mention and AVCA Pacific South All-Region Honorable Mention in 2022, putting up 483 kills in two seasons at UCLA.
Transferring to Louisville in 2023, Luper was a two-time All-ACC First Team honoree (2023, 2024), a two-time AVCA All Regional Team (2023, 2024), named to the NCAA All-Tournament Team (2024), AVCA First Serve Best Outside Hitter (2024), AVCA All-American Honorable Mention (2024), and a finalist to the AVCA Division 1 Player of the Year Watchlist. She finished her collegiate career as the 26th Cardinal to record 1,000 career kills and sits 17th on the all-time list with 1,208.
“I chose Orlando because of their winning culture and the greatness embedded within the team,” said Luper. “I love coach Amy’s philosophy and how she makes every single one of her players better. I wanted to surround myself around great players and Orlando is definitely the team for that!”
Major League Volleyball Returns to Orlando in 2026!
The Orlando Valkyries are gearing up for another thrilling season of Major League Volleyball at the Addition Financial Arena!
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ABOUT THE ORLANDO VALKYRIES
The Orlando Valkyries are a premier professional volleyball franchise competing in Major League Volleyball (MLV). As one of the league’s most dynamic and fast-rising teams, the Valkyries have captured national attention with their elite performance, passionate fanbase, and commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Based in the heart of Central Florida, the Valkyries are redefining what it means to be a professional sports organization, driven by competitive fire, innovative partnerships, and a deep connection to the Orlando community. With record-breaking performances and a growing legion of Valkyrie faithful, the team is setting a new standard for success in women’s professional sports.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE VOLLEYBALL
Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
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