With a strong returning core and a culture rooted in consistency, effort, and growth, Padua Academy Volleyball (PAVB) is gearing up for another impactful season in 2025. After securing the #1 seed and a Final Four finish in last year’s DIAA state tournament, the Pandas have their eyes on even greater heights.
Offseason Focus
For PAVB, the offseason isn’t a break—it’s an opportunity. The team’s main focus has been to maintain ball contact and high-quality reps year-round. Most varsity players compete on elite club/travel teams, gaining valuable touches throughout the winter and spring. Several are aiming for national tournaments this summer, keeping them sharp and in rhythm.
Special Offseason Events
PAVB isn’t just about competition—they prioritize team culture and community impact. This offseason, players from grades 9–12 participated in a challenge for Easterseals, blending service and team bonding. The team also hosts open gyms and summer league matches, while most players take part in skill-building camps and clinics.
Roster Changes
The team will miss four key seniors whose leadership and skill helped anchor last year’s success. Replacing them won’t be easy, but with a deep and committed roster, the Pandas are ready to reload rather than rebuild.
Players to Watch
Kaitlyn Leberstien (Senior Captain) – A four-year varsity starter, six-rotation player, and lefty RS hitter who excels in both setting and scoring. Kaitlyn nearly doubled her kills last season and consistently leads in aces, making her a key figure in both leadership and offensive production.
Cierra Burslem (Senior Captain) – Dominant in the middle, Cierra brings power, smarts, and aggression to the court. She’ll be essential to Padua’s high-speed offense.
Josalyn Carter (Senior Captain) – After battling injury last season, Josalyn is ready to return as a dynamic OH. She showed flashes of brilliance late last year and is eager to make her mark.
All three captains are committed beyond the court, leading workouts, planning team bonding events, and driving goal-setting for the fall season.
Fitness & Training
PAVB offers Titus performance sessions twice a week, focusing on strength, agility, and speed. While optional, these sessions are highly encouraged and help keep players physically ready to handle a challenging schedule.
Nutrition Guidance
Though not formalized, nutrition is discussed as part of a holistic approach to fitness and performance. Players are encouraged to eat well to support their intense training demands.
Coaching Outlook
Head Coach Rainbow Shaw-Giaquinto and her staff are embracing the challenge of a new season with flexible strategies, player development, and fresh ideas. The coaching team includes a former D1 athlete and experienced lower-level coaches who feed into the varsity pipeline. Regular player check-ins and new drill strategies keep the environment evolving.
Community Engagement
Padua’s offseason outreach includes social media updates, a weekly newsletter, and spirited student involvement through the Pandamonium Club, which rallies support and signs for game day. The program’s culture is strengthened by incredible fan energy and dedicated parents.
Biggest Challenges Ahead
With one of the toughest schedules in the state, PAVB knows there are no “easy” games. The team is focusing on daily consistency, physical and mental preparation, and building chemistry to push through the demanding season ahead. Expectations are high—but so is the potential.
 is gearing up for another impactful season in 2025. After securing the #1 seed and a Final Four finish in last year’s DIAA state tournament, the Pandas have their eyes on even greater heights.
Offseason Focus
For PAVB, the offseason isn’t a break—it’s an opportunity. The team’s main focus has been to maintain ball contact and high-quality reps year-round. Most varsity players compete on elite club/travel teams, gaining valuable touches throughout the winter and spring. Several are aiming for national tournaments this summer, keeping them sharp and in rhythm.
Special Offseason Events
PAVB isn’t just about competition—they prioritize team culture and community impact. This offseason, players from grades 9–12 participated in a challenge for Easterseals, blending service and team bonding. The team also hosts open gyms and summer league matches, while most players take part in skill-building camps and clinics.
Roster Changes
The team will miss four key seniors whose leadership and skill helped anchor last year’s success. Replacing them won’t be easy, but with a deep and committed roster, the Pandas are ready to reload rather than rebuild.
Players to Watch
Kaitlyn Leberstien (Senior Captain) – A four-year varsity starter, six-rotation player, and lefty RS hitter who excels in both setting and scoring. Kaitlyn nearly doubled her kills last season and consistently leads in aces, making her a key figure in both leadership and offensive production.
Cierra Burslem (Senior Captain) – Dominant in the middle, Cierra brings power, smarts, and aggression to the court. She’ll be essential to Padua’s high-speed offense.
Josalyn Carter (Senior Captain) – After battling injury last season, Josalyn is ready to return as a dynamic OH. She showed flashes of brilliance late last year and is eager to make her mark.
All three captains are committed beyond the court, leading workouts, planning team bonding events, and driving goal-setting for the fall season.
Fitness & Training
PAVB offers Titus performance sessions twice a week, focusing on strength, agility, and speed. While optional, these sessions are highly encouraged and help keep players physically ready to handle a challenging schedule.
Nutrition Guidance
Though not formalized, nutrition is discussed as part of a holistic approach to fitness and performance. Players are encouraged to eat well to support their intense training demands.
Coaching Outlook
Head Coach Rainbow Shaw-Giaquinto and her staff are embracing the challenge of a new season with flexible strategies, player development, and fresh ideas. The coaching team includes a former D1 athlete and experienced lower-level coaches who feed into the varsity pipeline. Regular player check-ins and new drill strategies keep the environment evolving.
Community Engagement
Padua’s offseason outreach includes social media updates, a weekly newsletter, and spirited student involvement through the Pandamonium Club, which rallies support and signs for game day. The program’s culture is strengthened by incredible fan energy and dedicated parents.
Biggest Challenges Ahead
With one of the toughest schedules in the state, PAVB knows there are no “easy” games. The team is focusing on daily consistency, physical and mental preparation, and building chemistry to push through the demanding season ahead. Expectations are high—but so is the potential.)
Share With