A NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDER
Behind the Ball began in 2023 with a single tournament that was never meant to be “just another event.” It started as a benefit tournament for my friend, Daphne Mozeley, as she courageously battled breast cancer. What I witnessed that day changed me forever. Our volleyball community showed up in a powerful way, filling the tournament and raising over $2,500 to help support Daphne with treatment and travel expenses. In that moment, I realized volleyball could be more than competition - it could be a force for good.
In 2024, I hosted two Behind the Ball tournaments in Hickory, North Carolina. By 2025, what began as one small act of love had grown into five tournaments across Hickory, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte, along with Blind Draws and King & Queen events. Each event reinforced why I started this in the first place - to create something that felt different.
Behind the Ball was created to look beyond the ball and the scoreboard. For me, it’s about good vibes, genuine connection, and delivering a high-quality tournament experience where every player feels welcomed, valued, and part of something bigger than the game.
After Daphne’s passing on December 30, 2025, I knew I wanted to honor her legacy in a way that would continue to change lives. That vision became the Daphne Mozeley Next Set Scholarship, created to support athletes who need financial assistance for their volleyball season. I believe access to the game should never be limited by finances - every athlete deserves the opportunity to step on the court and chase their next set.
Behind the Ball will always be rooted in community, compassion, and purpose. I’m grateful for every player, partner, and supporter who continues to be part of this journey.
Carlos began playing volleyball just under three years ago and quickly fell in love with both the game and the community. Carlos graduated from Liberty University, where he earned his MBA. Carlos owns Foster Brands and serves as the Chief Executive Officer.
Carlos leads all of Behind the Ball efforts and tournaments. He is always looking for new ways to create a better player experience, opportunities that help volleyball players and families, and new playing opportunities.
OUR TEAM
Taylor has been playing volleyball for over 15 years and competed on the University of Pittsburgh Club Volleyball Team. She is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, and currently works as a Senior Project Engineer at Eaton.
At Behind the Ball, Taylor helps lead all events and plays a major role in planning, operations, and creating an exceptional player experience. She’s the go-to resource for all things volleyball from rules, VolleyballLife, and tournament flow.
Christen has played volleyball for over a decade and competed at Sandhills College. She continued her love for the game through grass volleyball. She is a graduate of UNC Pembroke, where she earned her MBA, and currently serves as a Health & Benefits Senior Consultant at Mercer.
Christen will lead the Daphne Mozeley Next Set Scholarship program reviewing applications, presenting candidates to the scholarship committee, maintaining communication with applicants, and helping host our annual scholarship reception. She is passionate about connecting with athletes, coaches, and families and ensuring deserving players have access to the support they need to continue their volleyball journey.
Valentina has been playing volleyball for 11 years and currently competes with the Catawba College sand volleyball team. She brings a strong passion for growing the game, sharing her knowledge, and helping create an exceptional experience for every player on and off the court.
At our tournaments, Valentina plays a key role in event setup and tear-down and serves as Tournament Director on select days. In that role, she manages VolleyballLife, supports players under the tournament tent, and ensures clear communication throughout playoffs.
Aldahir began playing volleyball just two years ago and quickly found his passion especially for grass volleyball and RevCo doubles. Off the court, he works with Wildcat Contractors as a Safety & Heavy Machine Operator, bringing reliability, focus, and hard work to everything he does.
At our tournaments, Aldahir is a key part of set-up and tear-down, always showing up, stepping in where needed, and keeping the energy high. Known as everyone’s biggest cheerleader, he brings positivity, encouragement, and heart to every event.
2026 AMBASSADORS
