Returning stars, international talent and emerging standouts form the core of Fury’s next chapter
Columbus, OH - The Columbus Fury have announced the signing of 11 players as the organization begins building its roster for the 2027 Major League Volleyball season.
The group marks the first roster additions assembled by Head Coach Dave Boos and President/General Manager Eric Schulze and features a blend of returning Fury standouts, championship experience, international talent and emerging professional prospects.
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 group are 2026 Major League Volleyball All-Star Regan Nelson, returning libero Kamaile Hiapo, 2026 MLV Champion Kaitlyn Hord, Ohio native Emmy Klika, Serbian National Team players Mina Mijatović and Nataša Čikuc-Deans, veteran international outside hitter Iveta Stanchulova and young professional talents Carlson, Shelton, Martin and Dixon.
“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 players who have competed at the highest levels of the sport throughout North America and Europe, including national team athletes, proven professionals and rising stars beginning their professional careers.
“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.”
2027 Columbus Fury Signings
Setter
Averi Carlson
Liberos
Kamaile Hiapo
Emmy Klika
Middle Blockers
Regan Nelson
Kaitlyn Hord
Nataša Čikuc-Deans
Outside Hitters
Mina Mijatović
Iveta Stanchulova
Alexis Shelton
Ava Martin
Opposite
Anna Dixon
Additional player announcements, roster moves and team updates will be announced throughout the offseason.
Fans can visit ColumbusFury.com and follow the Fury on Instagram, Facebook and X at @ColumbusFury for the latest roster news, ticket information and updates leading into the 2027 season.