Charlotte, NC - Johnson & Wales Charlotte head volleyball coach Moana Reid is excited to announce the signing of Kayla Battle as part of the Wildcats' 2025 recruiting class.

Battle is a recent graduate of James Hunt High School in Wilson, NC. She was a two year member of the varsity squad, helping lead the Warriors to 31 wins and two NCHSAA 3A state playoff berths. Hunt advanced to the round of 16 in 2023. The 5'11" middle blocker ranked third on the team in hitting percentage in 2024 (.246), and led the team in solo blocks (93) block assists (12) and total blocks (105). The 105 total blocks ranked in the top six statewide. She played club volleyball for Triangle Volleyball Club.

She is the daughter of Kathy Atkinson and James Battle and plans to major in Health Science at Johnson & Wales. When asked why she chose to attend JWU Charlotte she replied, "I chose JWU Charlotte because of their beautiful campus and diversity. It brought me a strong sense of community and belonging." Battle earned the National Career Readiness Certificate Gold while in high school.

Coach Reid feels that it won't take Battle long to leave her mark on the team. "We are happy to add Kayla to our roster for the upcoming season. She is an explosive middle that is ready to come in and make an impact. She is also driven in the classroom, and I think will add value to our team. I can't wait to see what she accomplishes as a Wildcat!"