Orlando Valkyries Have Signed Rookie Middle Blockers Bre Kelley And Colby Neal. The current Major League Volleyball (MLV) champions, the Orlando Valkyries, have strengthened their frontline for the 2026 title defense by signing rookie middle blockers Bre Kelley and Colby Neal to professional contracts. These signings, made official in late December 2025, turn the team’s top two picks from the 2025 MLV Draft from hopeful prospects into essential components of the championship strategy. In related actions, the team has waived setter Gabrielle Benda and middle blocker M’Kaela White.
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Bre Kelley Career
Bre Kelly, a 6-foot-4 middle blocker from the University of Pittsburgh, comes to Orlando with an impressive college background. She began her journey at the University of Florida in 2021, where she was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and won a gold medal with the U21 USA National Team at the 2022 Pan American Cup. After transferring to Pittsburgh in 2023, Kelly suffered a season-ending injury but came back even stronger. She was instrumental in leading the Panthers to their fifth NCAA Final Four in 2025.
In 2024, Kelly had 155 blocks and followed that up with 165 blocks in 2025, earning 2025 Defensive Player of the Year honors and ranking fourth in Pitt history for single-season blocks. His strong presence at the net and versatile offensive skills earned him First Team All-ACC honors in both 2024 and 2025, as well as AVCA Honorable Mention All-American recognition in his final collegiate season.
Colby Neal Career
Joining in Orlando is Colby Neal, a 6-foot-4 middle blocker from Arizona State University, who just had an impressive senior season with the Sun Devils.
Neal played four years at the University of Oregon (2021–2024), where she achieved 229 blocks and 237 kills, helping the Ducks reach the Regional Semifinals in the 2024 NCAA Tournament.
After the 2024 season, Neal moved to Arizona State and quickly made a difference, aiding the Sun Devils in winning their second straight Big 12 Championship. She ended the 2025 season ranked fourth on the team in kills (167) and first in blocks (151). Neal concluded her college career with All-Big 12 First Team honors and AVCA Honorable Mention All-American recognition.
Scouting the New Valkyries: Bre Kelley & Colby Neal
The following table highlights the collegiate profiles and key strengths of Orlando’s new rookie duo:
| Player | Draft Selection | Achievements | Playing Style & Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bre Kelley | 1st Round, 6th Overall | 165 total blocks in 2025; 155 blocks in 2024; ranked 4th all-time in single-season blocks at Pitt | Elite, record-setting blocker; proven winner with back-to-back NCAA Final Four trips; international experience (U21 USA Gold, 2022) |
| Colby Neal | 2nd Round, 13th Overall | 151 blocks and 167 kills in 2025; logged at least 5 blocks in 15 matches during her final season | Consistent and intelligent defender; strong two-way player with offensive efficiency; brings veteran presence as a graduate transfer |
The signings match the Valkyries’ goal of strengthening the middle blocker position. In related roster changes, the team released setter Gabrielle Benda and middle blocker M’Kaela White.
The Valkyries will kick off their 2026 season at home on January 9 against the Grand Rapids Rise.
Frequently Asked Questions for Orlando Valkyries Have Signed Rookie Middle Blockers Bre Kelley And Colby Neal
When were Bre Kelley and Colby Neal signed?
The Orlando Valkyries officially signed both rookie middle blockers to contracts in December 2025.
Where did the Valkyries draft these players?
Bre Kelley was selected in the first round (sixth overall) and Colby Neal in the second round (13th overall) of the 2025 MLV Draft.
What makes these two players special?
Both were AVCA Honorable Mention All-Americans in their final collegiate seasons. Kelly is a dominant, award-winning blocker, while Neal is a consistent and intelligent two-way player.
Who did the Valkyries release to make room on the roster?
To create roster space, the Valkyries waived setter Gabriel Benda and middle blocker M Kayla White.
What is the goal for the Valkyries in 2026?
Under the leadership of Coach Amy Pauley, the stated goal is clear: to compete for and win another MLV championship. The addition of Kelly and Neal is a direct investment in that pursuit.