From the North to the National Stage: Mariah Owen’s Rise in Volleyball

Some athletes are shaped by opportunity. Others are shaped by resilience. Mariah Owen is both.

Coming from the remote community of Pormpuraaw, with roots across Cairns, Normanton, and Croydon, Mariah’s journey is anything but ordinary. In regions where access to high-level sport can be limited, she has carved her own path—one built on determination, belief, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone.

A Journey That Started with Fun

Mariah’s volleyball story began just three years ago not in elite programs or high-performance systems, but simply playing for fun at school at Bentley Park College.

What started as a casual interest quickly turned into something more.

Through commitment and curiosity, she transitioned into club volleyball, opening doors to new experiences, new challenges, and bigger dreams.

Learning the Game Beyond the Game

Stepping into state-level competition brought a new level of intensity and a powerful realization

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“I learned it was entirely a mindset game… especially playing with someone I’ve never met before.”

Competing as one of the few athletes from Far North Queensland, Mariah faced more than just skilled opponents—she faced the internal challenge of belonging.

“You definitely have to remind yourself you deserve to be there just as much as any other south player… and remind yourself how you got there.”

This mindset shift became a turning point. It wasn’t just about skill anymore—it was about confidence, identity, and owning her place on the court.

Adapting, Growing, Evolving

Mariah has also embraced the transition from indoor to beach volleyball—two very different games requiring different skill sets, movement, and strategy.

But instead of being overwhelmed, she leaned into the challenge.

“I could see clear improvement within each week… by adapting, I made clear progress.”

That ability to adapt—and to recognize growth—is what separates athletes who participate from those who progress.

Big Goals, Bigger Vision

Mariah isn’t just playing for today she’s building toward something much bigger.

With aspirations set on the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, she’s ready to put in the work required to reach the highest level of the sport.

“I’m definitely keen on putting in the effort for 2032… that’s something I’d be more than grateful to commit to.”

Her immediate next step? Traveling to Brisbane for the Queensland Indoor Volleyball Trials is another opportunity to test herself, grow, and be seen.

Representing the North

Mariah carries more than just her own ambitions—she represents a region often underrepresented in high-performance pathways.

“I want to be seen from up north… and invited to performance programs and many more opportunities.”

Her journey is a powerful reminder that talent exists everywhere—and with the right support, exposure, and belief, it can rise to any stage.

The Road Ahead

With her sights set on growth, opportunity, and long-term success, Mariah Owen is just getting started.

And if her journey so far is any indication, this is only the beginning.

Keep an eye on this name because the north is rising.