MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Milwaukee Area Technical College women's volleyball is thrilled to announce the signing of Ella Azbell, a 5‑foot‑9 outside hitter from Holly High School in Holly, Mich., to the Stormers' 2026 recruiting class. Azbell becomes the program's first-ever legacy signee, joining her older sister, current sophomore opposite hitter Angelina "AJ" Azbell.

Azbell closed her senior season at Holly High by earning All‑Flint Metro League honorable mention honors while serving as team captain. She finished with 195 kills on 620 attempts (.158 efficiency), 173 digs, 25 total blocks (three solo, 22 assists) and 19 assists, earning Team MVP honors. As a junior, she also captained the varsity squad, collected another honorable mention nod and received the program's Leadership Award.

Azbell has also been a fixture in the club volleyball scene. She competed extensively with Arsenal Volleyball Club and is set to complete her 18U season with High Performance Volleyball Academy prior to joining the Stormers next fall. That experience will provide another opportunity to sharpen her all‑around game before transitioning to collegiate competition.

"Our first legacy player, Ella, will arrive as her sister graduates from our program," MATC head coach Shel DeLisle said. "Sha driven six‑rotation outside with a thirst for winning, a strong work ethic and a proven record of leadership. Ella's swing is powerful, her defensive instincts are sharp, and we are thrilled to welcome another Azbell into the Stormers family."

Beyond volleyball, Azbell excelled in multiple sports. She competed in basketball and track and field, where she earned Most Valuable Athlete honors in 2024, captured All‑Region recognition in the high jump, 300 hurdles and 4x100 relay, and won the Flint Metro League 300‑meter hurdle championship. She also served as varsity track captain, underscoring her versatility and leadership across sports.

At MATC, Azbell will pursue an associate degree while remaining undecided on her major. She plans to transfer to a four‑year institution to complete her bachelor's degree and continue her volleyball career. Her athletic goal is to develop into a full six‑rotation player and contribute to the Stormers' pursuit of success.