Brevard HEAT

🚨 No Clearance. No Tryout. No Exceptions. 🚨
Per FHSAA regulations, every athlete must be officially cleared before they are allowed to participate in tryouts. If your Athletic Clearance isn't complete and approved, you won't be able to step onto the court, course, or field.

Take a few minutes today to log into your Athletic Clearance account and make sure you're GREEN to GO! ✅ Check for any missing forms, signatures, or required uploads so there are no surprises on tryout day.

Don't let paperwork keep you on the sidelines. Get cleared now and show up ready to compete!

Need help? Send us a message—we're happy to help!

THE SEASON DOESN'T START IN OCTOBER... IT STARTS NOW. 🏀

Basketball season may still be a couple of months away, but champions aren't made when the games begin—they're made in the weeks leading up to them.

Every Saturday morning is another opportunity to improve.

Through our partnership with Fast Fenom, athletes will spend 10 weeks learning the skills that make a difference on game day. From ball handling and passing to defense, footwork, and decision-making, every session is designed to give players tools they can continue practicing all week long.

💪 Train on Saturday.
🏀 Practice what you learned at home.
🔥 Come back the next week even better.

The players who make the biggest jump this season won't be the ones who waited for practice to start—they'll be the ones who chose to put in the work before everyone else.

If you're serious about taking your game to the next level, this is where it starts.

Player Focus Basketball Camp
📅 Saturdays | August 15 – October 17
🏀 Open to the public | Co-Ed | Middle & High School

Register today and start building the habits that will pay off when the season tips off.
CLICK HERE: https://www.brevardheatsports.org/activities-2/camps

WE ARE EXCITED FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON!
Thank you BSN for the preview and Coach Darrah Bowen for pouring into the volleyball program! LET'S GO HEAT!!!

BSN 2026 VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW: BREVARD HEAT FIREHAWKS

BREVARD HEAT FIREHAWKS 2026 SEASON PREVIEW: TAKE TWO (😂) BSN APOLOGIES FOR UPLOADING WRONG PREVIEW EARLIER:

HEAD COACH: Darrah Bowen
7th Season at Brevard HEAT | 103-28 (.786)

ASSISTANT COACH: Jason Bean, Sarah Livengood

2025 RECORD: 22-6
67 Sets Won | 21 Sets Lost

FHSAA Class 1A Region 2 Finalists
Two-Time Defending District Champions

THIS YEAR THE FIREHAWKS WILL COMPETE IN:

FHSAA CLASS 1A – REGION 2 – DISTRICT 8

District Opponents

* Calvary Chapel Academy
* City of Life Christian
* Florida Prep
* Master’s Academy
* Merritt Island Christian
* St. Edward’s

There may not be a more consistently successful small-school volleyball program in Brevard County than the Brevard HEAT Firehawks.

Since taking over the program in 2020, head coach Darrah Bowen has transformed the Firehawks into one of Florida’s premier Class 1A programs.

Over the past six seasons, the Brevard HEAT has compiled an outstanding 103-28 record, producing a remarkable .786 winning percentage while qualifying for five consecutive FHSAA State Tournaments.

During that span, the Firehawks have captured back-to-back district championships, advanced to the program’s first-ever Final Four in 2024 and reached last season’s Class 1A Region 2 Championship Match before falling to eventual state runner-up St. Edward’s.

Those accomplishments have changed the expectations surrounding the program.

The Firehawks are no longer simply hoping to make another postseason run.

They’re expected to compete for a state championship.

Bowen believes this year’s team has everything necessary to do just that.

Experience. Leadership. Depth. Chemistry.

Those four qualities have become the foundation of the Firehawks’ success, and they may be stronger than ever entering the 2026 season.

The Firehawks return six seniors, including four starters from last year’s regional finalist squad, while adding one of Brevard County’s premier defensive specialists in Haley Cowling, who returns to the program after starring at Space Coast.

That veteran nucleus has experienced nearly everything high school volleyball has to offer.

District championships. Regional championships. Final Four appearances. Heartbreaking postseason defeats.

Those experiences have helped shape the culture Bowen has built inside the program.

“Our biggest strength is our experience,” Bowen told BSN. “This core group has helped lead us on deep postseason runs over the past three years and understands what it takes to compete at a high level.”

“They know how to battle through adversity, finish sets and close out matches. That experience, combined with strong leadership and team chemistry, gives us confidence heading into the season.”

If the Firehawks are going to take the next step, it will begin with one of the county’s most experienced returning cores.

2026 PREVIEW KEY RETURNERS

Anna Livengood (Sr. Setter) 2025 Stats: 680 assists • 345 digs • 55 service aces • 35 kills

Livengood returns as one of the premier setters in Brevard County after directing one of the area’s most balanced offenses a season ago.

The rising senior finished second in Brevard County with 680 assists while adding 345 digs, 55 service aces and 35 kills, proving she impacts every phase of the match.

Her volleyball IQ, court awareness and decision-making allow Bowen to utilize every hitter on the floor, while her defensive ability makes her one of the area’s most complete setters.

The Firehawks’ offense once again begins with Livengood.

Brooke Arce (Middle Blocker) 2025 Stats: 151 kills • 39 total blocks • 43 service aces • 68 digs

Few middle blockers controlled the net more effectively than Arce last season.

The rising senior finished tied for the team lead with 151 kills, while leading the Firehawks with 39 total blocks and adding 43 service aces.

Whether attacking quick sets, slowing opposing hitters at the net or providing veteran leadership, Arce has become one of the program’s cornerstones.

She’ll once again anchor one of Brevard County’s strongest front rows.

Aine Hanley (SR. Outside Hitter / Opposite / Setter) 2025 Stats: 128 kills • 197 digs • 36 service aces • 18 assists • 11 total blocks

There may not be a more versatile player on the roster than Hanley.

Capable of playing virtually every position on the floor, Hanley gives Bowen tremendous flexibility while providing another dependable offensive option.

Last season she contributed 128 kills, 197 digs, 36 service aces, 18 assists and 11 total blocks, filling whatever role the Firehawks needed.

That versatility makes her one of the team’s most valuable players.

Haley Cowling (SR. Libero) 2025 Stats (Space Coast):
547 digs • 57 service aces

One of the biggest additions to the Firehawks isn’t a freshman moving up, it’s the return of Haley Cowling.

After starring at Space Coast last season, Cowling returns to Brevard HEAT to anchor what could become one of the premier defensive units in Brevard County.

Cowling recorded 547 digs, second-most in Brevard County and 11th in the State of Florida, while adding 57 service aces.

Her leadership, defensive instincts and ability to control serve receive immediately elevate an already talented roster.

Bowen expects Cowling’s presence to make an immediate impact as the Firehawks pursue another deep postseason run.

Janessa Figueroa (SR. Defensive Specialist) 2025 Stats: 136 digs • 116 serve receptions

One of the Firehawks’ most dependable back-row defenders returns after another productive season.

Figueroa provides consistency in serve receive while contributing 136 digs and helping stabilize the defensive rotation.

Her experience gives Bowen another veteran defender capable of frustrating opposing hitters and extending rallies.

Audrey Koubek (SR. Defensive Specialist) 2025 Stats: 35 digs • 50 serve receptions

Koubek, a rising senior returns after providing valuable depth throughout last season.

While her statistics don’t always tell the complete story, Bowen values her communication, consistency and defensive awareness.

Those qualities make her another important piece of one of the county’s deepest defensive rotations.

PLAYERS READY FOR LARGER ROLES

Audrina Olsen (JR. Middle Blocker) 2025 Stats:

128 kills • 33 total blocks

While Olsen is technically a returning player, Bowen expects her to assume a significantly larger role this season.

The rising junior finished last year with 128 kills and 33 total blocks, proving she can be a productive offensive threat while also providing another physical presence at the net.

With another year of experience, Olsen could become one of the Firehawks’ biggest breakout players.

One of the reasons Bowen is so optimistic about this year’s team is the quality depth developing behind her veteran core.

While six seniors provide the leadership, several younger players (profiled below) have positioned themselves to become important contributors as the season unfolds.

Bowen believes those athletes will play a major role in determining just how far the Firehawks can advance this fall.

Charis Bennett (SO. Outside Hitter)

Rising sophomore Charis Bennett is one of the newcomers Bowen is most excited about heading into preseason camp.

The talented outside hitter brings athleticism, energy and an aggressive style of play that fits perfectly into the Firehawks’ system.

Bowen believes Bennett’s offseason development has prepared her to contribute immediately and eventually become another dangerous offensive weapon.

Kara McCawley (Opposite)

McCawley, a rising junior strengthens the Firehawks on the right side.

Her physical play at the net and continued offseason improvement should allow her to compete for significant varsity minutes while adding another attacking option to the lineup.

Kianne Amelunge (JR. Setter)

Every successful volleyball team needs depth at setter, and Bowen believes that Bayside transfer Kianne Amelunge provides exactly that.

In limited action as a sophomore on a deep Baydide team she saw limited action but she gives the Firehawks another player capable of directing the offense while continuing to develop behind one of the county’s premier setters in Anna Livengood.

Brooklyn Elder (JR. Middle Blocker)

Although her varsity opportunities were limited last season, Elder impressed Bowen enough to earn an expanded role entering 2026.

She possesses the size and athleticism to become another dependable middle blocker and gives the Firehawks additional front-row depth.

NEW FACES TO WATCH

Coach Bowen pointed to four players who have stood out throughout the offseason.

Charis Bennett, Kara McCawley, Kianne Amelunge and Brooklyn Elder.

Each brings a unique skill set, and Bowen believes all four are capable of making immediate contributions.

Just as importantly, she believes they represent the future of Brevard HEAT Volleyball.

Developing those players while continuing to compete for championships has become one of the hallmarks of Bowen’s program.

ROTATION OUTLOOK

The Firehawks once again appear loaded throughout the lineup.

Anna Livengood returns to direct the offense while Brooke Arce, Aine Hanley and Audrina Olsen provide experience and versatility across the front row.

Defensively, Bowen believes this could become one of the strongest back rows in Brevard County.

The addition of Haley Cowling gives the Firehawks another elite defender to pair with experienced defensive specialists Janessa Figueroa and Audrey Koubek.

Cowling’s arrival not only improves the defense but also strengthens serve receive, allowing Brevard HEAT to play the fast-paced style Bowen prefers.

The Firehawks also possess quality depth at nearly every position, giving Bowen flexibility throughout the season and healthy competition during preseason camp.

Unlike many programs that must replace multiple starters, Brevard HEAT enters camp focused on refining rotations rather than rebuilding them.

STRENGTHS

• One of the most experienced rosters in Brevard County.

• Six returning seniors, including four starters.

• Five consecutive FHSAA State Tournament appearances.

• Two consecutive District Championships.

• Outstanding leadership and chemistry built through years of playing together.

• Elite defensive potential led by Haley Cowling, Janessa Figueroa and Audrey Koubek.

• Offensive balance directed by one of the county’s premier setters in Anna Livengood.

• A championship culture that has produced a 5-2 record in FHSAA State Tournament play over the past two seasons.

BIGGEST QUESTION MARK

Can the Firehawks take the final step?

There is little left for this program to accomplish except winning a state championship.

The Firehawks have reached five consecutive state tournaments.

They’ve captured district championships. They’ve advanced to a Final Four. They’ve played for regional championships.

Now comes the biggest challenge. Finishing the journey.

Bowen believes that won’t happen simply because of talent. It will happen through daily commitment.

Last season reinforced one lesson above all others.

“Growth doesn’t stop after a successful season,” Bowen said.

“Great teams embrace high expectations, stay coachable and continue improving every day regardless of past accomplishments. The pursuit of excellence is a daily commitment, and that’s the mindset we’re carrying into this season.”

EXPECTATIONS

Bowen doesn’t shy away from discussing her team’s goals.

“Our expectation is simple—we want to compete for a state championship and return to the Final Four,” Bowen told BSN.

“We know those opportunities aren’t given—they’re earned through hard work, discipline and consistency every single day. Our seniors have set a high standard, and we’re excited to see this team rise to the challenge.”

STYLE OF PLAY

Fans can expect another aggressive, fast-paced style built around defense and pressure serving.

Bowen wants her team dictating points from the service line while frustrating opponents with relentless defense and disciplined ball control.

Offensively, the Firehawks want to become even more aggressive at the net.

Rather than simply keeping rallies alive, Bowen wants her hitters attacking with confidence and finishing points.

COACH’S QUOTE

“Our program is as strong as it’s ever been, and it continues to grow each year. We are incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of the homeschool community, whose encouragement and investment make our program possible.

“Our goal is not only to build a successful volleyball team but also to provide a place where young women can grow in character, leadership, faith and confidence while competing at the highest level.

“We’re committed to pursuing excellence in everything we do. Our athletes understand that success is built through hard work, serving one another and competing with integrity. We believe the best is still ahead for Brevard HEAT Volleyball.”

SCHEDULE

The Brevard HEAT Firehawks will waste little time testing itself against some quality opponents.

Circle the August 28 matchup as the Heat renew their growing rivalry with St. Edward’s in a rematch of last season’s regional championship.

FIRST FIVE MATCHES

Aug. 17 – vs. Space Coast (8-18) Heat 4-1 all-time vs Vipers, won both matches last year 3-0 and 3-1.

Aug. 18 – @ Heritage (15-8)
9-5 all-time vs. Panthers, won last year 3-1, Have won 5 straight in series.

Aug. 20 – @ Rockledge (11-6) Heat won lone matchup in series last season defeating Raiders in four sets

Aug. 25 – vs. Melbourne Central Catholic (7-19) The Heat
defeated MCC in straight sets last year and has a 4-1 all-time mark vs. the Hustlers.

Aug. 28 – vs. St. Edward’s (19-12 1A state runner-up) The Heat are 10-7 all time vs. the Pirates. The loss in the regional championship snapped a four match winning streak vs. St. Ed’s

The Heat defeated the Pirates in the district championship but St.Edwards ended Brevard’s season one year ago before advancing to the Class 1A State Championship Match.

BSN SAYS

There may not be a more respected small-school volleyball program in Florida than Brevard HEAT.

What Darrah Bowen has accomplished over the past six seasons deserves statewide recognition.

A 103-28 record. Five consecutive FHSAA State Tournament appearances. Two straight district championships. A Final Four appearance and a regional championship appearance.

Those accomplishments don’t happen by accident.

They are the result of outstanding coaching, player development and a culture built on accountability, discipline and faith.

What makes this year’s team particularly dangerous isn’t one superstar.

It’s the experience spread throughout the roster.

Just as importantly, Bowen believes the younger players are ready to assume larger roles, giving the Firehawks the depth necessary to survive another demanding postseason run.

BSN believes Brevard HEAT enters the 2026 season as one of the favorites to win another District 8 championship and once again contend for the Class 1A Region 2 title.

If the Firehawks continue to defend at the level Bowen expects while becoming more aggressive offensively, this veteran group has every opportunity to accomplish the one goal that has eluded the program.

Winning the first FHSAA state championship in Brevard HEAT history.

THIS POST SPONSORED BY Coastal Strength Barbell coastal_strength_and_barbell

Brevard HEAT

𝐑𝐎𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐑𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐒
Every great athlete has something in common...
They don't wait for practice to get better.

They understand that small, consistent effort adds up over time. Just 20 focused minutes today can make a difference when tryouts arrive.

🔥 Today's Coach's Challenge:
Spend 20 uninterrupted minutes working on ONE skill.

🏐 Volleyball → Passing
🏀 Basketball → Ball Handling
🏌️ Golf → Putting
🏃 Cross Country → Recovery Run
🏊 Swimming → Dryland Exercises

No phone.
No distractions.
Just focused work.

Remember, coaches aren't looking for perfection—they're looking for athletes who are committed to improving.

Every pass.
Every dribble.
Every putt.
Every stride.
Every rep.

It all adds up.

💬 Challenge accepted? Tell us what sport you're training for in the comments, and when you've finished your 20 minutes, come back and comment DONE! 👊

We're cheering you on every step of the way as we count down to tryouts!

15 Days Until Tryouts! 🏐🔥

The countdown is on! If you're planning to try out for a Fall sport, now is the time to double-check your Athletic Clearance.

If you have not received a clearance email, there's a good chance you're not cleared yet.

Take a few minutes to log into your Athletic Clearance account and make sure you're GREEN to GO! ✅

Check for:
✔️ Missing forms
✔️ Parent or student signatures
✔️ Required uploads
✔️ Any items still waiting for approval

Per FHSAA regulations, athletes must be officially cleared before they are permitted to participate in tryouts. We don't want anyone to miss out because of incomplete paperwork!

If you have questions or need help with the process, send us a message. We're happy to help get you across the finish line!

Colossians 3:23-24

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters... It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

It's easy to give our best effort when people are watching.

When the crowd is cheering.
When the coach notices.
When there's a trophy on the line.

But this verse reminds us that our greatest audience has always been God.

Whether you're studying for a test, practicing your sport, serving your family, or encouraging a teammate, every task becomes an act of worship when it's done for Him.

God isn't just interested in the outcome.
He's interested in the heart behind the effort.

🔥 Excellence isn't about earning applause—it's about honoring the One who gave you your gifts.

When Christ is your motivation, every practice has purpose.
Every challenge has meaning.
Every opportunity becomes another way to glorify Him.

👇 Reflection Question:
If you truly worked "as unto the Lord," what would change about your attitude this week?

Welcome to the Team!
The future is bright, and it just got even brighter!
Please help us welcome Julia Nemetz, Lauren Trew, and Joy Bennett to our Beach Volleyball Coaching Staff! 🔥

These three incredible women once wore the Firehawk jersey themselves, and now they're returning to give back to the program that helped shape them—both on and off the court.

As alumni, they know what it means to wear HEAT across their chest. They understand the hard work, commitment, and heart it takes to compete, and we couldn't be more excited for them to pour that knowledge, passion, and experience into the next generation of Firehawks.

There's something special about seeing former athletes come home to mentor those following in their footsteps. We can't wait to see the impact they'll have this season.

SHARE A POSITIVE WORD IN THE COMMENTS BELOW❤️🖤🏐

COACH'S TIP
One thing Coach Darrah wishes every athlete knew...
"You can't perform at your best if your body isn't prepared to compete."

It's easy to think becoming a better athlete is all about spending more time with a ball in your hands. Skill work is important—but it's only one part of becoming a complete athlete.

Strength training and conditioning build the foundation for everything you do.

💪 Strength training helps you move quicker, react sharper, hit harder, reduce fatigue, and lowers your risk of injury.
❤️ Conditioning builds the endurance to compete with the same energy and intensity from beginning to end.

When your body is strong and prepared, you'll spend less time trying to keep up and more time improving your skills.

The best athletes don't wait until the season starts to get in shape. They come to practice ready to learn, ready to compete, and ready to get better.

Whether you're lifting weights, using resistance bands, completing bodyweight exercises, or going for a run, every workout is an investment—not just in this season, but in your long-term health and athletic success.

🔥 Coach's Challenge
Set aside 20–30 minutes today for strength training or conditioning.
Try:
✅ Push-ups
✅ Squats
✅ Lunges
✅ Planks
✅ Sprint intervals
✅ A 20-minute run
Your future self—and your teammates—will thank you.

🏐 Coach Darrah says:"Preparation creates confidence."

We often admire the final result—the championship, the scholarship, the personal best—but we rarely see what made it possible.

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out."
— Robert Collier
Success isn't built in a single game or one incredible performance.

It's built in the decisions no one applauds.

The early mornings.
The extra repetitions.
The decision to encourage instead of complain.
The commitment to keep going when motivation fades.

Those small moments may seem insignificant on their own, but over time they become the foundation of something extraordinary.

🏆 Great achievements are rarely the result of one big moment. They're the result of hundreds of faithful ones.

👇 Think about it:
What small habit could you commit to that your future self will thank you for?

Every athlete, parent, coach, volunteer, and alumni has a reason they love being part of the HEAT family.

Now it's your turn...

💬 Finish this sentence:

"The best part of HEAT is __________."

Is it...
❤️ The friendships?
🙏 Growing in your faith?
🏆 The competition?
🙌 The coaches?
🔥 The Firehawk family?
🎉 Game days?

There are no wrong answers—we want to hear what makes HEAT special to YOU!

👇 Comment your answer below, then tag a teammate, coach, parent, or HEAT family member and see what they say! We can't wait to read every response.