
In a week defined by community pride and sporting excellence, Gwinnett County officially paused to recognize the Atlanta Vibe, the region’s premier professional women’s indoor volleyball team.
Earlier this week, Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, representing the Board of Commissioners, was joined by mayors from across the county to present a formal proclamation honoring the team. The ceremony celebrated the Vibe not only as a powerhouse on the court but as a transformative force in the Gwinnett sports landscape.
A History of Breaking Barriers
The Atlanta Vibe’s journey began as a series of “firsts.” Launching in 2024 as the first professional women’s indoor volleyball team in Gwinnett history, they made an immediate national impact.
- 2024 Inaugural Season: The Vibe played the first-ever match in Pro Volleyball Federation history, defeating Omaha in a thriller that set a national attendance record for women’s professional volleyball. They concluded their debut year as the Regular Season Champions.
- Gas South Arena: By choosing Duluth’s Gas South Arena as their home, the Vibe brought a new level of “placemaking” to Gwinnett, turning the Gas South District into a hub for world-class women’s athletics.
2025: A Year of Dominance
Building on their initial success, the 2025 season saw the Atlanta Vibe cement their status as a league titan. The team achieved a staggering 19-8 record, highlighted by a historic 13-match winning streak that shattered previous league records.
Led by 2024 League MVP Leah Edmond and Libero of the Year Morgan Hentz, the 2025 roster proved that the Vibe’s success was no fluke. The team’s ability to “reverse sweep” opponents and maintain composure under pressure solidified their reputation as the team to beat in the Pro Volleyball Federation.
What This Means for Gwinnett’s Future
The recognition by Chairwoman Hendrickson and local mayors signals a shift in how Gwinnett views its professional sports identity. Owner Colleen Craig has often stated her goal: “What baseball is to Cobb County, we want to be for Gwinnett County.”
Moving forward, the Vibe’s presence in Gwinnett promises:
- Economic Vitality: Attracting thousands of spectators to Duluth, boosting local hospitality and retail.
- Youth Inspiration: Providing a local, professional pathway for young female athletes who previously had to look overseas for role models.
- “One Gwinnett” Unity: The team has become a centerpiece for the county’s “One Gwinnett” initiative, bringing diverse residents together under one roof.
As the Vibe enters the 2026 season, the partnership between the team and the county has never been stronger. With a championship pedigree and a growing fan base, the Vibe is no longer just a new addition to the roster—they are the heartbeat of Gwinnett sports.
