When you think of an athlete who seems to transcend the usual expectations of their role, Taylor Harvey immediately comes to mind. While her official position on the Bountiful High School volleyball team may be listed as middle, don’t let that fool you—this 6-foot-3 powerhouse can play anywhere on the court. Her ability to dominate both offensively and defensively in any rotation makes her an irreplaceable asset to her team. Rarely does she step off the court, and when she does, it’s often only because Bountiful’s team is so far ahead that coach Kelsie White gives her a much-needed break.
Here's ads banner inside a post
In a sport where athletes often specialize in specific positions, Harvey’s unique versatility and relentless work ethic have made her one of the most exceptional players in the state, and this talent has catapulted her to the title of 2024 Deseret News Ms. Volleyball. But behind her remarkable skill set and impressive stats lies a player whose personality and drive shine just as brightly as her athletic achievements.
The Making of a Volleyball Phenomenon
Standing at 6-foot-3, Harvey possesses the height and agility to stand out in any role on the volleyball court. However, what truly sets her apart is her sheer versatility. From defense to offense, Harvey can do it all. She defends like a libero, reading the game and positioning herself to keep her team in control. When it’s her time to attack, she hits with the force of one of the best outside hitters in the game.
Here's ads banner inside a post
“Taylor is the type of player you never want off the court,” said Coach White. “I think I maybe subbed her out twice all year, and it was because we were just destroying a team, so I was giving her a little bit of a rest. She’s a player who can attack from both the back row and the front row. I entered this season with the mindset of, ‘How do we get Taylor the ball as much as possible?”
This devotion to keeping Harvey involved in every aspect of the game speaks to her significance on the court. Her versatility isn’t just a bonus; it’s a game-changing factor. As Coach White continues, “It’s rare to get a player like Taylor. She’s the type of athlete who elevates the entire team.”
Here's ads banner inside a post
Harvey’s senior season saw her leading the state with a remarkable 615 kills and maintaining an impressive .330 hitting percentage. Additionally, she recorded 274 digs and 56 aces, highlighting her all-around excellence. But even more than her statistics, it is her infectious competitive spirit and unique personality that have left a lasting impact on her teammates and coaches alike.
A Unique Personality and Leadership Qualities
It’s easy to be intimidated by Harvey’s physical prowess, but what truly makes her stand out is her personality. Coach White describes her as “a natural competitor and leader who is authentically herself.” Off the court, Harvey is known for her lighthearted, whimsical side, often bringing humor and fun into team practices and off-the-field activities. But once the game begins, the goofy, carefree Taylor transforms into a fierce competitor who commands the attention of everyone in the gym.
“Taylor is goofy and has a bit of a whimsical side, but she’s also a whole new beast when it comes to competition,” White said. “She’s someone you definitely want on your team.”
This blend of personality and athleticism makes Harvey a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the court. She’s the kind of player who can rally her teammates, leading by example and showing that hard work and authenticity can coexist with competitiveness and success.
Following in Her Sister’s Footsteps
Harvey’s rise to fame in the volleyball world didn’t come without inspiration from her family. Her sister, Jordyn, was named Ms. Volleyball in 2022, and it was a title that Taylor watched with admiration. “I was just super excited because Jordyn got it two years ago, and I was just following in her footsteps,” Taylor said. “I worked really hard, and it was just a relief that it all paid off.”
For Taylor, earning the Ms. Volleyball award was not just a personal achievement, but a way to honor her sister’s legacy while creating her own path in the sport. As if winning the prestigious award wasn’t enough, Taylor also found herself making decisions that would shape her future. After watching her sister’s recruiting process and seeing Jordyn’s success at Stanford, Taylor knew she would be following a similar trajectory.
But the young athlete ultimately decided to carve her own path, committing to the University of Texas, the reigning national champion for 2022 and 2023. Harvey explained, “I had a leg up because I saw Jordyn go through the process, so I kind of knew how it was going to happen. Texas was very welcoming, and the coaches and players are super supportive. The city, the environment, everything felt like somewhere I could live.”
Her decision to play for the Longhorns places Harvey on a team already poised for greatness. It’s a natural progression for an athlete of her caliber who has already proven her worth in both high school and national volleyball.
Success Beyond High School: Basketball and USA Volleyball
Harvey’s athleticism extends far beyond volleyball. As a two-sport star, she has also excelled in basketball. Named the 5A Player of the Year for basketball in both 2023 and 2024, Harvey led Bountiful High to back-to-back state championships and aims to capture a third this year.
Her talents have also earned her recognition on the national level. Harvey has represented the United States on youth national teams, including the U19 Women’s National Volleyball Team. This past summer, she played a key role in the U21 Women’s National Team’s victory at the NORCECA Continental Championship in Canada, helping the U.S. claim a gold medal.
Harvey’s decision to focus on volleyball came after much contemplation, but her experiences with Team USA made it clear that volleyball was her true calling. “I ended my sophomore basketball year, and then I started getting recruited for volleyball. It was just an awesome opportunity to meet so many people and expand my connections with the volleyball world.”
The Ultimate Dream: The Olympics
Despite her many accomplishments, Taylor Harvey has set her sights on a goal that few athletes can even dream of: playing in the Olympics for Team USA. After spending time with the U21 team and witnessing the U.S. women’s volleyball team compete in Paris, Harvey feels that the Olympic dream is within reach.
“We were in Canada watching the Olympics, and it really felt like it was so attainable because it’s just right there,” Harvey said. “We’re doing the same routines, wearing the same jerseys, and practicing in the same facilities. It really feels like it’s set up for me to be there.”
The experience of being so close to the action and interacting with the Olympians left a profound impact on Harvey, fueling her desire to one day represent her country on the biggest stage of all.
A Family Legacy of Athleticism
Athletic achievement runs deep in Harvey’s family. Her sister Jordyn was the 2022 Ms. Volleyball, her father, Tony Harvey, played basketball for the University of Utah in the late 90s, and her mother, Lindsay, also played collegiate volleyball. Even more, Harvey has cousins in the NBA, including Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon.
Having a family full of accomplished athletes has certainly played a pivotal role in shaping Taylor’s mindset and approach to sports. “I could see what they were experiencing, how they got over their mental blocks, and how they worked through challenges even at a young age,” Harvey said. “Helping me work through, not just sports, but life in general. My dad is a coach for basketball, and how he coaches me through basketball can correlate to life a lot. It’s helped me so much.”
The Future Looks Bright for Taylor Harvey
As Taylor Harvey continues to grow and evolve as an athlete, it’s clear that her journey is far from over. With her talent, versatility, and drive to succeed, there is no limit to what she can accomplish. Whether on the volleyball court, the basketball court, or one day competing on the world’s biggest stage at the Olympics, Harvey’s future is incredibly bright. For now, her focus is on her collegiate volleyball career at Texas, but the sky’s the limit for this extraordinary athlete.
Harvey’s story is a testament to what happens when raw talent meets dedication, hard work, and a desire to be the best. It’s not just her athletic abilities that make her so special, but her character and leadership qualities that inspire those around her. The world is watching, and Taylor Harvey is just getting started.
