Merrick McHenry has a new team, a new country and an increasingly impressive collection of achievements behind him. The openly gay Team USA volleyball player has arrived at Gas Sales Bluenergy Piacenza, beginning his next chapter in Italy’s top-flight SuperLega.
The 6-foot-7 middle blocker was officially presented by the club on October 1. His two-season deal was announced in June, and he joins after two professional seasons with Nice in France.
For fans who watched him at UCLA, it is another satisfying step forward. McHenry helped the Bruins win consecutive NCAA national championships in 2023 and 2024 before taking his game overseas.
This summer brought another achievement: silver with the United States at the Volleyball Nations League. In the five-set final against Poland, he contributed 14 points, including 11 kills and three blocks.
Those results tell one part of his story. Finding somewhere he could feel comfortable being himself tells another.
McHenry previously spoke to the Los Angeles Times about feeling out of place as a gay man growing up in Texas. At UCLA, he described becoming happier and more comfortable in his own skin. Being visible also brought moments of connection, including a fan thanking him for what his presence meant to the LGBTQ community.
Now that visibility travels with him into another professional league.
At his Piacenza presentation, McHenry described a warm welcome from teammates and staff. Learning some Italian is among his first personal goals, alongside improving his game and helping the team win.
He also offered a glimpse of life beyond training: time with friends, trips to the cinema, a love of the sea—and cuddles with his cat Maverick, who will soon join him in Italy.
Further ahead, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics offer an intriguing possibility. Indoor volleyball is scheduled for Anaheim’s Honda Center, bringing the sport back to Southern California, where McHenry became a college champion. Selection remains something to earn, rather than a place already secured.
For now, his next challenge is in Piacenza: getting to know his teammates, settling into Italian life and continuing a career he is building openly.
📷 @merrickmchenry
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